Rural criminology and traditional practices in South Africa: Exploring the impact of violence during the Umguyo ceremony

Résumé

South Africa continues to experience high levels of violent crime, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) recording over 22,000 murders in 2023/2024, alongside increasing incidents of robbery and assault. While these statistics are alarming, little is known about the hidden forms of violence that occur within cultural settings, particularly during traditional ceremonies such as Umguyo, a Xhosa ritual that precedes Ulwaluko (Traditional Male Circumcision). This paper aims to evaluate the social, economic, and psychological effects of violence during the Umguyo practice on families and the broader rural community. It is also aimed at examining how such violence disrupts cultural harmony, education, and community cohesion. The study employed a qualitative approach, drawing on interviews and focus group discussions with custodians of culture and community members in the Amathole District Municipality of South Africa. Findings of the study demonstrate that (i) violent incidents during Umguyo transform the ceremony from a joyous cultural event into one of grief, creating deep emotional trauma and financial strain for affected families; (ii) traditional obligations such as funerals and cancelled rituals further burden families economically and socially; and (iii) rumours and disputes following violent incidents contribute to long-term community fragmentation and hinder educational progress during the initiation season. Overall, the study highlights how violence linked to cultural practices undermines social cohesion, mental well-being, and economic stability in rural South Africa. Addressing this requires culturally sensitive legal reforms and strengthened community engagement.

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