Initiation rites are a long-standing tradition that takes place every year, during the months of November and December, in all districts of Cabo Delgado Province. They are especially common in districts with a predominantly Makonde population, such as Nangade, Mueda, Muidumbe, Palma, Mocímboa da Praia, Macomia, among others that also practice these rites.
This tradition began long ago, but in recent years, due to the war affecting the province, it has become very difficult to carry it out as it was done before. Even so, the practice has not been abandoned.
The purpose of this tradition is to educate children, teach them how to live respectfully with elders, provide guidance, and prepare them for adulthood. It is a very challenging phase for the children who go through the rite. First, they are circumcised, with the removal of the foreskin to ensure better hygiene.
Before the insurgency, circumcised boys were taken to a remote forest area located 15 to 20 km from the village, depending on where water could be found. They remained there for two or three months, until their wounds were completely healed.
During their stay in the forest, a person was chosen to cook for the children throughout the entire period, and afterwards everything was paid for by the parents or guardians. The traditional healers responsible for the circumcision also established several rules that the parents had to follow.
The place where the children stayed was ritually prepared by the traditional healers to prevent witches and dangerous animals from approaching, ensuring safety during the entire stay in the forest.
Nowadays, things have changed. Because of the insurgency, the children are no longer taken to the forest. Instead, one of the houses located on the outskirts of the village is chosen, and the maximum stay is now one month, due to the instability in the province.
In the past, when a family completed the initiation rites, a large celebration was held. Today, due to the circumstances, families simply give thanks for the safe return of their children. Since last week, many districts have already begun carrying out circumcisions. (BP)
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