MAMALO AS A RESOURCE FOR GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN VHEMBE DISTRICT COMMUNITIES OF LIMPOPO PROVICE, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

This study investigates the traditional practice of Mamalo (bride-price) within the Vhavenda culture and its implications for gender equality and the restoration of women's dignity. It argues that despite Mamalo’s indictment as enabler of gender-based violence (GBV) in recent literature; there is a notable gap in understanding how the belief systems that underpin these practice can be used as a resources for restoring women dignity and gender equality. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study engages individuals from the Vhembe District in the Limpopo province of South Africa, through non-probability sampling and in-depth one-on-one interviews to gather insights into the Mamalo belief systems and its significance for marriage in the Vhavenda culture. A systematic thematic analysis of the data revealed that the Mamalo marriage framework within the Venda culture emphasizes the importance of marriage as a source of unity and family collaboration. When correctly interpreted in the “spirit of the culture”, Mamalo can serve as a resource for promoting gender equality and restoring dignity to women. By recognizing the positive aspects of this traditional practice, the study contributes to a nuanced understanding of how cultural practices can be aligned with the goals of gender equity and empowerment of women in Africa.