Lobola (Bridewealth) in Contemporary Southern Africa

This volume explores the multiple meanings and implications of lobola in Southern Africa. The payment of lobola (often controversially translated as ‘bridewealth’) is an entrenched practice in most societies in Southern Africa. Although having a long tradition, of late there have been voices questioning its relevance in contemporary times while others vehemently defend the practice. This book brings together a range of scholars from different academic disciplines, national contexts, institutions, genders, and ethnic backgrounds to debate the relevance of lobola in contemporary southern African communities for gender equality.

 “This book attests to how lobola as a cultural practice shaped femininities, masculinities, class, guaranteed the legal protection of children in families, sanctioned the subordination of women and gender-based violence.  It is a diachronic study on the journeys of lobola, chronicling its intersectionality with law, colonialism, Christianity, capitalism, neo-liberalism, gender, Western family models, femininities, masculinities, cultures, class, rituals, children, liberation, human rights, and decolonization, etc. This volume is, therefore, a must read for students of history of ideas, Christianity, colonial impact, gender justice, global economics, family welfare and sociology among others.” (Musa W. Dube, Professor of New Testament Studies, University of Botswana)

“The significance of this volume cannot be overemphasized. It holds us by the hand, gently guiding us to the very ‘heart’ of gender injustice of the neocolonial materialistic consequence of current practices of lobola in Southern Africa. It is a tender invitation to those who claim to be the guardians of the traditions and to the gender activist intellectuals and movements to search for that deeper and life-giving understanding of lobola in the context of gender justice and equality. This book is an invaluable and significant contribution to the growing body of literature on religion, culture, gender, and sexualities in African studies.” (Chammah J. Kaunda, Assistant Professor of World Christianity and Theology, Yonsei University, South Korea)

Lovemore Togarasei is Professor of Theology and Religious Studies (Biblical Studies and African Christianity) at the University of Botswana.

Ezra Chitando is Professor of History and Phenomenology of Religion at the University of Zimbabwe and Regional Coordinator of the World Council of Churches Ecumenical HIV and AIDS Initiatives and Advocacy.