Indigenous Beliefs and Practices for Promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health among the Tsonga of Chiredzi District, Zimbabwe

Sexual and reproductive health is a crucial aspect of human health. This qualitative study sought to find out indigenous beliefs and practices for sexual and reproductive health among Tsonga of Chiredzi District, Zimbabwe. Postcolonialism and Afrocentricity were the theoretical frameworks underpinning the study. The qualitative design adopted was phenomenological because data were collected from people within the Tsonga ethnic group, to get the insiders’ perspectives on their distinctive practices, experiences, and beliefs. The sample was purposively selected. It comprised 24 participants from different parts of Chiredzi District (12 males and 12 females). This sample comprised health practitioners, teachers, businesspeople, and ordinary community members. The conservative sample was due to the scarcity of resource persons as not many people were willing to share information on such a sensitive issue. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, which was then thematically analysed. The study revealed that indigenous practices and beliefs can be instrumental in promoting sexual and reproductive health among the Tsonga, owing to their availability and affordability in their surrounding environment. Tsonga people still use traditional medicines alongside Western medicines to safeguard sexual and reproductive health. It was concluded that indigenous knowledge systems related to sexual and reproductive health are not antagonistic to Western medicine and science, but complement the same. It is recommended that in the face of challenges associated with resourcing public health institutions, especially in Zimbabwe, integration of indigenous and modern modes of safeguarding sexual and reproductive health would enhance the realisation of sustainable development goals, particularly goal number 3, which focuses on good health and well-being.