Kutanda botso :Reviving traditional values to combat parental abuse
Traditional leaders in Zimbabwe are sounding the alarm over the rising cases of child-on-parent violence, highlighted by a recent incident where a Karoi man was sentenced to six months in prison for assaulting his mother over a monetary dispute. This disturbing trend has brought to light the growing scourge of children physically abusing their parents, prompting concerns about the erosion of cultural norms and the breakdown of family values.
The incident has sparked urgent calls to revive traditional values and restore the sacred bond between parents and children. Community leaders are now seeking ways to address the root causes of parent abuse, a phenomenon that contradicts Zimbabwean culture’s deep-seated respect for elders.
In an interview with AfroGazette News, Chief Mupambawashe of Ward 26 in Manicaland Province emphasized that social ostracism or “kutanda botso” remains a vital tool in African culture for addressing parental abuse.
“When a mother reports physical abuse by her child to our traditional court, we summon the child to understand the underlying cause of their actions. We then impose a fine of three beasts of cattle and enforce social ostracism, a punishment deeply rooted in Shona culture, acknowledges the revered role of mothers”.
“Kutanda botso involves public humiliation, where the perpetrator dresses in sackcloth,mimicking a mad person and begs for grain to brew beer to appease ancestors.This ritual serves as a powerful deterrent, warning potential offenders of the severe consequences of harming their mothers. Failure to comply risks calamities befalling the perpetrator and their descendants perpetuating a cycle of shame and accountability”,she said.
Chief Mupambawashe highlights that substance abuse fuels violent behavior, particularly among youth.”Substances like marijuana/mbanje methamphetamine known as guka or mutoriro, glue and cough syrup impair judgment leading individuals to blame their mothers for their problems. Laziness, not circumstances drives these children to drugs, theft and robbery.”
The chief warned children engaging in parental abuse to desist from using drugs as an excuse. Assaulting a mother (kurova amai) is a spirit that haunts forever, regardless of fines or apologies. A mother carries you for nine months and gives birth to you, how can you raise a hand against her?”
Drawing on biblical teachings, she stressed,”Respect your father and mother and your days will be numbered”.
