Paper short abstract:

This paper examines how Africans employed indigenous healing methods in southern Rhodesia to treat venereal diseases, particularly syphilis. It analyses the indigenous methods and techniques used by Africans in combatting syphilis.

Paper long abstract:

This study explores the social history of venereal diseases among Africans during the colonial period. Focusing on Syphilis, this study shows how European settlers viewed Africans as 'sick and diseased' people who were responsible for the spread of venereal diseases in the colony. This notion stemmed from Europeans' general perception that Africa was a 'sick continent.' These perceptions influenced how Europeans related to Africans and how they dealt with the prevalence of diseases in the colony. However, the study argues that Africans were not passive victims of venereal diseases and mere recipients of state-imposed health interventions in their communities. Instead, they had their understanding when it came to these venereal diseases and developed indigenous techniques to manage, prevent, and treat these diseases. Using archival records, this study examines how the migratory labour system contributed to the high incidence of syphilis among Africans in urban, mining and rural areas and how these Africans used indigenous knowledge systems to prevent, limit and treat diseases in their respective societies. By examining African experiences with venereal diseases, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how cultural and indigenous beliefs influenced Africans' understanding of syphilis and how they controlled it in their societies.