Zimbabwe's Sangomas Embrace Digital Age, Sparking Debate
Zimbabwe's traditional healers, known as sangomas, are embracing the digital age. Once limited to face-to-face consultations, they now offer spiritual guidance and healing through live streams and virtual sessions, reaching clients worldwide. This shift has sparked debate among critics and supporters, while also drawing attention to the country's economic crisis driving people towards these alternative sources of help.
At the heart of this phenomenon is Gogo Mafirakureva, a sangoma who has gained thousands of viewers on TikTok for her live consultations. She joins a growing number of sangomas using social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook to connect with clients, offering spiritual guidance and healing practices. These sessions often involve rhythmic drumming, chanting, and dancing to connect with ancestors and spirits, diagnosing ailments, and performing healing rituals.
The economic crisis in Zimbabwe is pushing people towards sangomas. With limited access to conventional healthcare and financial struggles, many are seeking alternatives for physical and spiritual ailments. Some sangomas, like Uebert Angel and his wife Bridget Mutale, charge significant fees for their services, with reports suggesting Angel demanded up to $1,000 for a prophecy consultation. This has drawn criticism from those who view them as profiteers, while supporters hail them as innovators adapting to the times.
As Zimbabwe's economic crisis continues, traditional healing practices are evolving with the digital age. Sangomas like Gogo Mafirakureva are reaching wider audiences than ever before, sparking debate about their role in society and the future of spiritual guidance in the country.
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