Earning a Master of Social Science in Community Development was more than an academic achievement for Mr Nicholas Tsiri – it was a deeply personal journey rooted in his upbringing, faith and a cultural practice that has shaped many lives: ilobolo.
Supervised by Dr Zilungile Mbatha, his dissertation, “An Analysis of Community Perceptions on Lobola Payment in Delmas Area, Nkangala District”, explores how people in his community understand, practise and experience ilobolo within today’s evolving social and economic landscape.
‘Ilobolo is a form of bride price or bride wealth paid by a groom’s family to the bride’s family as a sign of gratitude. It symbolises the union of two families and is deeply valued as a marker of cultural identity and belonging,’ he explained.
Tsiri shared that while many still honour its significance, there is growing concern about how ilobolo is being practised in contemporary society. He found that people increasingly feel that ilobolo has lost its original purpose – becoming too expensive, exploitative and stressful, especially for young men.
‘What was once a unifying tradition is now being used by some to make money. Ilobolo is no longer viewed purely as a cultural practice, but often as a business transaction. It puts financial pressure on young men and sometimes even threatens the relationships it is supposed to strengthen,’ he contends.
A unique revelation from the highlights a growing conversation around the potential use of ilobolo proceeds. Tsiri notes that in the face of economic hardship, many families in Delmas turn to stokvels (savings groups) to meet ilobolo obligations. He contends that for some, these funds could rather serve toward long-term goals such as paying off student loans, contributing to a home or other forms of shared investment without diminishing the cultural importance of the practice.
He added that while ilobolo holds deep cultural meaning, it is not a legal requirement for marriage under South African law. He therefore suggests that couples may choose to formalise their union through a civil marriage, thereby opening up space for discussions about how tradition and modern legal frameworks can coexist in ways that reflect today’s economic and social realities.
For Tsiri, growing up in a community where ilobolo was widely practised, the topic was not only relevant but also deeply resonant. ‘I’ve seen the joy it brings, but also the burden it places on others. So, it felt important to ask: how do we honour tradition without harming the very people it’s meant to protect?’
Tsiri chose this topic because it reflects a real tension he has observed in his community. He describes the research process as both personal and transformative, ‘It helped me reflect on who I am, where I come from, and what values I stand for. I didn’t just study the community; I was part of the story.’
Now, Tsiri hopes his work can encourage both critical reflection and respectful dialogue about the future of ilobolo. ‘We need to preserve our culture, but also adapt to ensure fairness and equality. Let’s redefine our traditions to reflect the times we live in,’ he added.
He attributes his success to his faith and family, who supported him when he was exhausted, overwhelmed and uncertain. ‘This journey has given me more than a degree – it’s given me clarity on the kind of community developer I want to be,’ he said. ‘One who listens, questions, and helps build bridges between the past and the future.’
Looking ahead, he is determined to use his research to make a broader impact. ‘My dream is to work in policy development, to influence decisions that promote social justice and cultural awareness. I believe in building communities that honour tradition while embracing change.’