UKZN staff member Dr Khanyisile Majola was awarded a PhD for her study on “Youth and Traditional Leaders’ Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence in Rural Settlements: Insight from the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal”.

Supervised by Dr Sazelo Mkhize, the study uncovered the process in which custom and culture intervene when dealing with issues of intimate partner violence (IPV) in rural settings; with more attention being paid when it occurs amongst married couples and ignored when it involves unmarried couples.

‘Gender-based violence (GBV) has evolved from being just a domestic or domestic violence issue. In 2020, when I began my study, media reports revealed that IPV also occurs among younger, usually unmarried couples. Moreover, the stories told focused on urban areas. I thus felt the need to explore the issue in rural settlements,’ said Majola.

The study found that leaders’ perceptions and understanding were deeply embedded in custom and culture. This was in stark contrast to how the youth viewed and engaged with these traditions. Majola found that while the youth respected and acknowledged cultural teachings, they were not as immersed in them, sometimes feeling isolated as a result. She noted that traditional leaders tended to prioritise IPV issues among married couples, often overlooking those involving dating couples.

Addressing this disparity and its implications for those affected, Majola contends that culture and custom should be practiced throughout society, irrespective of marital status. Unmarried individuals were not granted the same redress in IPV matters, despite traditional leaders and the youth sharing the understanding that it is an act of abuse which could be verbal or physical.

Another key finding was that ukudlisa (administration of love potions) is a strong influence when it comes to IPV. Other issues include the distinction between respecting elders and asking for help when one falls victim to IPV. Majola noted that the African Zulu context requires dating relationships to remain a secret until marriage. This means that most IPV victims’ voices are silenced under the guise of respect.

The study recommends interventions and support systems for victims of IPV in rural areas, such as simply allowing the discussion of IPV to be open and talked about among all age groups, ensuring that no one is isolated. Traditional leaders play a vital role in tackling the issue of IPV that could be addressed through the camps held for maidens and boys; and programmes that focus on IPV and abuse.

‘This study indicates that there is a yearning for transformation in how IPV issues are dealt with. Age and marital status do not define IPV and the most vulnerable demographics should be supported. As respected as culture may be, it needs to be evaluated in light of contemporary challenges,’ said Majola.

She added: ‘I thank the community of Kwa Thoyane and uMnini for their eagerness to participate and share their experiences. Bayede Ndabezitha uHlengwa! Bayede Ndabezitha uLuthuli.’