“Ndiyindoda” [I am a man]: theorising Xhosa masculinity

Masculinity studies in South Africa depend on Western gender theories to frame research questions and fieldwork. This article argues that such theories offer a limited understanding of Xhosa constructions of masculinity. Xhosa notions of masculinity are embodied in the concept of indoda, meaning a traditionally circumcised person. This article explores the nuanced meanings of indoda and its relationship to other masculinities, like uncircumcised boys [inkwenkwe] and medically circumcised men. The discussion reveals that indoda is the most “honoured” form of masculinity. A traditionally circumcised individual is regarded as indoda, a real man, irrespective of his sexual orientation or class, and this affords him certain rights and privileges. Inkwenkwe and medically circumcised men embody “subordinate” forms of masculinity and are victims of stigma and discrimination by indoda. This requires us to revisit some Western theories of masculinity which place heterosexual men at the top of a masculine hierarchy and gay men at the bottom. It furthermore requires us to pay attention to the body when theorising Xhosa masculinity, since it is a principal way of “proving” and “defending” Xhosa manhood.IBS

Tiyo Soga

This chapter is about the life of Tiyo Soga, the first internally educated black South African and priest, a pioneer of African literature, and a seminal intellectual. He embodies the paradox of the civilising mission. He personified the modernising influence of the missionary enterprise, but was also an indictment of the supposed moral virtue of the colonial establishment.

Political Management of Ethnic Perceptions: An Assessment of the African National Congress

This paper argues that the ANC has historically followed a moderate route – embracing tradition, whilst denouncing tribalism. Yet, this did not insulate the party from accusations of ethnic bias – a perception the leadership largely left unattended. But, entry into the arena of competitive politics has imposed a slight modification on the part of the party towards pandering to ethnic sentiments, albeit not officially acknowledged. The intention is not to cultivate political tribalism in a divisive sense. Rather, it is employed to cultivate among ethnic communities, which otherwise feel marginalised, a sense of identification with the ruling party. The party itself has done well to blunt the perception of ethnic bias to a point where it lacks popular resonance. That the perception itself still exists, reflects the saliency of (politicised) ethnic consciousness among the populace owing to past apartheid machinations in service of political hegemony.African Journal on Conflict Resolution Vol. 7 (2) 2007: pp. 135-16

Congress of the people: a promise betrayed

The future of The Congress of the People (Cope) looks bleak, as bitter leadership clashes have dented its moralist orientation, big business is reluctant to been seen supporting opponents of the ANC, and black professionals and the middle classes have been alienated by the party's stand against affirmative action, writes MCEBISI NDLETYANA.

Policy incoherence: a function of ideological contestations?

The chapter focuses on the years 2010 and 2011. Reference is made to preceding years to the extent that they shed further light on the origin of the ideological impasse. Essentially, the chapter contends that policy inconsistency is a reflection of ideological contestation within the ruling African National Congress (ANC). This chapter notes, though, that the multiple ideological orientations of the liberation movement are not, per se, an impediment to policy decisiveness. Whether or not leadership is decisive depends on the stability of its power base, and this is what the Zuma presidency lacks. Zuma's presidency was conceived upon a fragile power base. The broader ANC never stood unanimously behind Zuma, but showed split allegiances between him and Thabo Mbeki, whilst the political left wing stood squarely behind him. This has made the Zuma presidency hesitant to lead or openly embrace policy initiatives that alienate the left-wing supporters.

John Tengo Jabavu

This chapter is about the life of a pioneer of African journalism and champion of higher education for Africans, yet woefully dependant on white-liberal agency, John Tengo Jabavu was ultimately a conflicted figure.

Cultural Implications of Socio-Economic Reconfiguration: Is black still black?

Paper presented at seminar organised jointly by the HSRC and the Black Management Forum, 16 Marc