Ngwana’ ditlhaka: early affirmation of motherhood

Abstract

Ngwana ’a ditlhaka (reed baby) is a traditional Northern Sotho concept that can roughly be equated to a fertility doll, an artefact that is familiar to many cultures. It is specifically made for a young woman, by elderly women, for experiential motherhood. It is a significant symbolic transition (physically and emotionally) to mothering a biological offspring. Like other traditional concepts and practices, this phenomenon may not have been consciously eliminated, but may simply have been a casualty of cultural evolution. Motherhood is often taken for granted, but it can be a daunting task. Unless it is resourcefully prepared for, motherhood can lead to devastating psychological and moral tragedies. This article explores the phenomenon of ngwana ’a ditlhaka as well as its role in, and impact on, traditional societies. The article also examines the assumed absence of in-depth grooming and support that may be the cause of some disturbing contemporary events. Tapping into indigenous knowledge and adapting lessons learnt from concepts such as these, modern contexts may advance multi-disciplinary approaches to current practice in order to alleviate the strain on modern experiences of motherhood.