Page 67 - Heritage Streets of KwaMashu 2025

In SA, Drakensberg (uKhahlamba), the main mountain range of Southern Africa. The Drakensberg rises to more than 11,400 feet (3,475 metres) and extends roughly northeast to southwest for 700 miles (1,125 km) parallel to the southeastern coast of South Africa. Rock and cave art several thousands of years old has been found in the range. The Drakensberg is also a world heritage site together with Isimangaliso, Sibhudu Caves, Ohlange/Dr JL Dube House.
These extra-human phenomena were identified to me as being either a deity or an ancient ancestor spirit which is believed to be responsible for the creation, and a colossal snake that usually lives in rivers, fountains, and deep-water pools near mountains (see also De Beer 1996:3 in this regard). The belief in such a mythical water snake is also found among other ethnic groups in South Africa (cf. nemulambo - I Venda; kganyapa - Southern Sotho/Tswana; inkanyamba - Zulu and ~yampsang - Tsonga). This association between sacred mountains and magic power is also believed in by many Christians. Prophets of some of the independent African churches sometimes stayed for a short
period on these mountains to obtain and replenish their power to be better able to heal the members of their church. The medicinal plants found there are used for almost all conceivable illnesses and for magical purposes, for instance, to ensure safety during journeys, success in sports, love affairs, and virtually almost any other human undertaking.
In indigenous knowledge, the Mamogaswa/inkanyamba is believed to have been created by the supreme being Him/ Herself and can manifest itself in the male or female form of virtually any phenomenon, although its most common manifestation is in the form of a snake. It is particularly associated with tornados and other very strong winds coming from the south (ningi-zimu). A red glow in or near water at night is also an indication of the presence of mamogaswa.
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