N'anga

A n'anga, close to Great Zimbabwe

Among the Shona people of Zimbabwe, a n'anga is a traditional healer who uses a combination of herbs, medical/religious advice and spiritual guidance to heal people. In Zimbabwe, N'angas are recognized and registered under the ZINATHA (Zimbabwe National Traditional Healer's Association).^[1][2]

They are believed to have religious powers to tell fortunes, and to change, heal, bless or even kill people. Traditionally N’angas were people’s main source of help in all matters of life. They have existed for decades well before the British colonial era. The liberation war leaders (Second Chimurenga) are said to have consulted with N’angas during the war for independence.^[3]

Even today, N'angas are consulted by the people for advice and healing of many illnesses. Sometimes N'angas refer their patients to western medical practitioners and hospitals in case of emergency or illness they can't cure with the help of their healing spirit.^[4]

References

1. ^ "Culture of Zimbabwe". http://www.everyculture.com/To-Z/Zimbabwe.html. 
2. ^ "Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (ZINATHA)". http://www.kubatana.net/html/sectors/zim032.asp?sector=HR&year=0&range_start=1. 
3. ^ Angus Shaw, (1993) Kandaya, Another time, Another place, Baobab Books
4. ^ Specialization and referral among the n'anga (traditional healers) of Zimbabwe. PMID 2219419.