Balete men go for Bogwera initiation school
THE CALL OF THE WILD: Balete men leave for Bogwera
Just in the heart of the Ramotswa region, a sacred tradition echoes through the villages of Ramotswa, Taung, Mogobane, and Otse. Led by the esteemed Kgosi Mosadi Seboko, the Balete tribe upholds the age-old practice of Bogwera, a month-long male initiation that transforms boys into responsible men.
Every August, a powerful silence descends upon the Balete territory. This year, over 200 men answered the call of Bogwera, leaving their homes and families to embark on a journey into the wild. As Deputy Paramount Chief Kgosi Tsimane Mokgosi explained, this is more than just a cultural ceremony; it is a rigorous training ground for adulthood. “Bogwera teaches men to stay responsible and ‘man enough’ to know what’s right or wrong,” he stated.
The respect for this tradition is absolute. Once the initiates have departed, the community observes a period of ultimate reverence. Noise is kept to a minimum, parties and marriages are postponed, and even public music is forbidden. This is a time of quiet reflection, where the community collectively supports the men on their journey. Those who fail to comply face harsh penalties, a testament to the high regard in which this cultural practice is held.
Bogwera is a tradition with deep historical roots, dating back to before the 16th and 17th centuries. It served as a vital part of the community’s spiritual and social life, preparing young men between the ages of 16 and 23 for their future roles. Before the initiation, these young men would gather to learn traditional songs, herd cattle, and perform other tasks, all under the guidance of their chief.
Kgosi Mokgosi emphasized the modern-day importance of Bogwera, especially in a world grappling with social ills often linked to men, such as gender-based violence, crime, and substance abuse. By teaching responsibility and instilling a strong moral compass, Bogwera aims to create a new generation of men who are equipped to be pillars of their communities and loving family men. As the initiates undergo their transformation, the Balete community holds its breath, awaiting their return as men ready to take on the world.
