Discuss the value and position of indigenous games in the South African sporting

Question

industry.
5. Discuss the following Indigenous games (Dibeke/Skununu, Kho-Kho,
Ntimo/Magave/Upuca, Jukskei, Ncuva/Morula, Morabaraba and Intonga). Your
discussion should provide definitions, game descriptions, rules and scoring, safety
measures, duration and equipment used.
6. Discuss strategies to keep indigenous games alive in South African communities.
7. Conclusion

Answer 1

The Value and Position of Indigenous Games in the South African Sporting Industry

Indigenous games in South Africa are an essential aspect of the country’s cultural heritage and play a significant role in sports education and community bonding. These traditional games, often passed down through generations, symbolize the social, moral, and cultural fabric of South African society. They contribute to a sense of identity and belonging for participants, as they are not only recreational but also hold historical significance.

The South African sporting industry has increasingly recognized the value of indigenous games as complementary to more commercially popular sports like rugby, soccer, and cricket. By promoting these games, South Africa can embrace its diversity, encourage social cohesion, and foster an understanding of cultural heritage among different communities. Indigenous games not only serve to promote physical activity but also educate younger generations about their history and traditions, thereby keeping cultural practices alive.

Indigenous Games Overview

1. Dibeke/Skununu

   • Definition: A traditional South African game resembling a form of tag.
   • Game Description: Played with teams trying to knock down a pile of stones while avoiding being tagged.
   • Rules and Scoring: Points are scored by successfully knocking down the stones and avoiding being tagged during the retrieval.
   • Safety Measures: Players should wear appropriate clothing and play in a safe, open space to prevent injuries.
   • Duration: The game continues until a predetermined score is reached or a set time limit is achieved.
   • Equipment: A pile of small stones or similar objects.

2. Kho-Kho

   • Definition: A traditional game that combines elements of tag and relay race.
   • Game Description: Played on a rectangular field with two teams, where players try to tap the opposing team's players while evading being tagged.
   • Rules and Scoring: The game is played in two innings, and each team's score is determined by how many players they can tag.
   • Safety Measures: Ensure the playing field is free of obstacles, and players should wear suitable sneakers to avoid slipping.
   • Duration: Typically lasts for 40 minutes, divided into two halves.
   • Equipment: None, although a whistle may be used for signaling.

3. Ntimo/Magave/Upuca

   • Definition: A tapping game that is played to test agility and strategy.
   • Game Description: Teams try to tap the opponent's players while maneuvering through designated areas.
   • Rules and Scoring: Players score points by tapping opponents; scoring can vary by agreed-upon rules.
   • Safety Measures: Ensure the playing area is safe, clear of hazards, and participants have the right footwear.
   • Duration: Can vary based on players' agreement, often played to a score limit.
   • Equipment: Bare feet are often preferred; no other equipment is required.

4. Jukskei

   • Definition: A traditional tossing game using wooden pins and sticks.
   • Game Description: Players aim to knock down a target (typically a wooden peg or pin) by throwing a Jukskei stick.
   • Rules and Scoring: Points are earned by knocking down the target; specific rules for distances and throws are agreed upon before play.
   • Safety Measures: Throwing should occur in an open area away from spectators, and players should stand clear during a throw.
   • Duration: Matches can last until one team reaches a decided score or a set time.
   • Equipment: Two wooden sticks and a target pin.

5. Ncuva/Morula

   • Definition: A game involving strategic movement similar to traditional board games.
   • Game Description: Variations exist but typically involve moving marbles or stones across a designated area.
   • Rules and Scoring: Points are scored based on successful moves; rules can vary by community.
   • Safety Measures: The smooth playing surface helps minimize injuries.
   • Duration: Typically played until a score limit is reached or players decide to conclude.
   • Equipment: Marbles or stones, and a marked play area.

6. Morabaraba

   • Definition: A traditional board game similar to checkers.
   • Game Description: Two players compete to form ‘mills’ (three pieces in a line) to remove pieces from their opponent.
   • Rules and Scoring: Each player has 12 pieces, and the objective is to create as many mills as possible while eliminating opponent pieces.
   • Safety Measures: Ensure the play area is clean and that pieces are not a choking hazard for younger players.
   • Duration: Games can last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on players' skills.
   • Equipment: A Morabaraba board and 24 game pieces (12 per player).

7. Intonga

   • Definition: A stick-fighting game that develops agility and strength.
   • Game Description: Participants engage in duels using sticks while avoiding their opponent’s strikes.
   • Rules and Scoring: Players score by successfully striking the opponent or disarming them; the game can have specific rules about hits.
   • Safety Measures: Protective gear such as helmets and padding can be used to minimize injury risk.
   • Duration: Matches are often timed or can continue until a player is declared the winner.
   • Equipment: Sticks of equal length and weight are used.

Strategies to Keep Indigenous Games Alive in South African Communities

1. Education and Awareness: Incorporating indigenous games into school curricula can help educate children about their cultural significance while teaching them the rules and techniques involved.

2. Community Events and Tournaments: Organizing local tournaments or festivals celebrating indigenous games can encourage participation and interest among community members.

3. Integration with National Sports Bodies: Partnering with national sports organizations to promote indigenous games can facilitate resource sharing for training and events.

4. Promotional Campaigns: Social media campaigns and local advertising can raise awareness of indigenous games and their cultural importance, reviving interest and participation.

5. Training Programs for Coaches: Developing training programs for coaches to teach indigenous games can ensure that traditional knowledge is passed on effectively.

6. Documentation and Preservation: Writing manuals, creating video tutorials, and establishing archives of games can help in the preservation of knowledge surrounding these activities.

7. Encouraging Multi-Generational Play: Encouraging families to play these games together fosters community bonds and provides a space for knowledge sharing across generations.

Conclusion

Indigenous games represent a vital piece of South Africa's identity and cultural heritage. They foster community engagement, promote physical activity, and enrich the nation's sporting landscape. By adopting strategies to preserve and promote these games, South African communities can ensure that future generations not only enjoy these activities but also appreciate their historical and cultural significance. The integration of indigenous games into the broader sporting industry enhances the country’s rich cultural diversity, making South Africa’s sporting scene unique and inclusive.