In the olden days, traditional healers used to relax in their consultation huts while they waited for their clients to approach them for assistance. With the advent of communication platforms such as social media, however, young traditional healers refuse to be left behind.
Tshilidzi Brenda Munyai, a young traditional healer from Dzimauli Tshibvumo near Tshilamba, is an example of this. Besides conducting physical consultations, she also makes use of video calls, voice calls, Facebook, WhatsApp and TikTok to consult with her clients around the country.
Tshilidzi (27), who is known as "Gogo Hlangelani" on social media platforms, says she realised that traditional healers today also need to adapt to these ever-changing times. "I personally feel that, as a young person, I should adjust to the new way of life. We live in a technological world now. It is easier now to interact with people from anywhere at any time through social media. I had to take advantage of what it offers. Unlike some people, who use social media for all the wrong reasons, I believe that this platform can be constructive if used responsibly," she says.
Asked how she gets compensated for her work through social media, she explained: "I can throw the bones on a video call with my clients and interact with them on WhatsApp and other social media platforms. After the 'virtual' consultation, I package their traditional medication and have it couriered directly to them. They transfer the money for the services rendered electronically, without ever coming to me personally. I interact and help people from as far as Gauteng, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Bloemfontein on a daily basis."
She encourages other traditional healers who make use of social media in their pursuit to help people to use it responsibly. "With everything changing because of social media, we have no other choice but to follow suit. Using social media saves time and makes it easier for traditional healers to help their clients, regardless of their geographical location."