HOLIDAYS OF
SOUTH AFRICA

Rainmaking Ceremony

October 22:

Rainmaking is one of the most important festivals in many parts of Africa. Unlike most rainmakers, who are men, the rainmaker of the Lovedu people is their queen, whom they call "The Transformer of the Clouds." They believe she can create rain and change the seasons. When rain is needed her advisors tell her that "the people are crying" and bring her gifts. Then she uses the secret medicines of her rain pot, invokes the help of her ancestors, and consults an expert in weather lore. The entire tribe may dance until rain begins.