Approaches To Management And Treatment Of Nhova Among Indigenous Practitioners And Selected Christian Churches

Abstract

The study focuses on the different approaches used by indigenous practitioners, Johane

Masowe church and AFM in the management and treatment of nhova in Zvishavane. It is a

comparative study that seeks to impact and interrogate the convergences and divergences

among the Christian churches and indigenous practitioners. The study was guided by

Afrocentricity particularly Karenga (1993)‟s ideas on multiculturalism. Utilising interviews

questionnaires and focus group discussions, the study established that there are several

approaches used by both Christian churches and indigenous practitioners. These include salt,

cooking oil, soil, indigenous herbs, Maduma (waist and neck strings) and Muteuro (prayer).

The study establishes convergences between indigenous practitioners and Johane Masowe

since both make use of, salt, cooking oil and maduma. AFM presented a different scenario

because they believe in Jesus Christ as a healer, have faith in the power of prayer to heal

every disease and going to hospital. The research therefore presents a case where there is

critical need to respect differences.

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