3 October 2026
Respecting and Preserving African Culture
With Vincent Mothoa
In this episode of The Power Shift, George Mashile and Vincent Mothoa have a thoughtful conversation about African culture, family and marriage traditions. They explore the meaning of “motswala o nyala motswala,” the important role of Rakgadi during marriage processes, and the practice of go ikilela—how it is observed, why it matters and who is expected to observe it. The conversation encourages us to understand the meaning behind our traditions, ask questions and preserve this knowledge for future generations.
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About this episode
Culture is not preserved only through ceremonies. It is preserved through conversation, understanding and the willingness to pass knowledge from one generation to the next.In this episode of The Power Shift, George Mashile sits down with Vincent Mothoa for a relaxed and thought-provoking conversation about African traditions and the responsibilities that connect individuals, families and communities.
The discussion explores the expression “motswala o nyala motswala” and the traditional thinking surrounding marriage between cousins. George and Vincent reflect on how this practice was understood, the relationships it created between families and why it remains important to discuss its meaning within the correct cultural context.
They also speak about Rakgadi and the important position she occupies within the family, particularly during marriage discussions and traditional processes. Rakgadi is not simply a guest at these occasions. She can be a representative of the family, a source of guidance and a custodian of family knowledge and customs.
The conversation then turns to go ikilela. What does it mean to ikilela? How should it be observed, and who is expected to do it? The episode considers how the practice is understood in different circumstances and why families should explain its purpose instead of expecting younger generations to follow it without understanding.
This conversation does not suggest that every African family, clan or community follows exactly the same customs. Instead, it creates space for people to ask questions, consult their elders and understand the traditions belonging to their own families.
It is an invitation to remember where we come from, to preserve what carries meaning and to ensure that valuable cultural knowledge is not lost.
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you guys are speaking with our souls
Thank you so much for that inspiration will keep talking about our culture