Imagine living right next to a cemetery for two decades! That's the reality for Gobela Lucas 'Vilakazi' Sambo, a 47-year-old sangoma from Atteridgeville, Tshwane. He's been fearlessly residing near Makhaza Cemetery for over 20 years, and he claims the spirits of the dead hold no sway over him.
Gobela Sambo shared his unique perspective with the Daily Sun, stating that his ancestors provide him with protection. He explained that despite the unsettling activities often associated with cemeteries, such as nighttime candle lighting, screams, and even crime, he feels secure.
But here's where it gets controversial... While he acknowledges the unsettling nature of the gravesite, he also admits that even as a sangoma, he doesn't venture out to investigate at night. He says that his ancestors, when they visit, express concern due to the various spirits present in the area. However, he also emphasizes that in all his years of living near the graves, he's never encountered a ghost. Instead, he sometimes hears people singing church hymns and traditional amadlozi songs at night.
"Amadlozi are protecting me from the spirit of the dead. No bad spirit will visit my home. I'm protected," he confidently stated.
He attributes his protection to his ancestors, including his late mother, sangoma Poppy Sambo, who passed away in 2005 and built the double-story house where he resides. He also notes that his amathwasa (apprentices) share his lack of fear regarding the dead.
Beyond his personal experiences, Gobela Sambo is a practicing sangoma. He assists people in various ways, including helping to find missing family members, strengthening businesses, and healing illnesses, often collaborating with health facilities. He also shared his thoughts on the path to becoming a sangoma, noting that not everyone is meant to train as one, and some do so simply to appease their ancestors.
He also didn't shy away from discussing the issue of fake izangoma, stating that some are driven by money, much like some pastors who scam people. His advice to the public is to exercise caution when seeking consultations. He finds satisfaction in receiving gratitude from his clients after assisting them.
Gobela Sambo is also a proud family man and the father of 13 children. His primary focus is on healing people, keeping his family content, and avoiding the pursuit of material possessions. He even expressed a wish that his children wouldn't follow in his footsteps, acknowledging the challenges of his journey.
His daughter, Sibongile Sambo ( 27), expressed her pride in her father, describing him as loving, helpful, and caring. Another thwasa, Malesela Manamela (39), also shared that he is undisturbed by the presence of the dead. Sangoma Dorah Ngobeni added that there's no issue with Lucas living near the graves, as long as he's not residing within the gravesite itself.
What do you think? Do you believe in the power of ancestral protection? Could you live next to a cemetery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
