From the 27th to 29th of August 2024, the GCBR MAB-YOUTH visited Montagu for a skills development workshop hosted by Anneline Mohammedt. This three-day event was a deep-dive into the rich heritage of African traditional medicine, focusing on the spiritual and medicinal value of indigenous plants. The visit also coincided with the celebration of African Traditional Medicine Day on the 31st of August.
Day 1: The Art of Smudging and Sensing
The workshop began with an introduction to smudge sticks, a traditional practice involving the burning of herb bundles for cleansing and healing. Participants created their own smudge sticks, which served as both an icebreaker and a hands-on lesson in herbal identification. Anneline emphasised the importance of connecting with the spiritual nature of South African indigenous plants before exploring their medicinal properties. This day was about tuning into the senses, recognising the subtle energies of the plants, and understanding their roles in spiritual practices.
Day 2: Following the Footsteps of the Ancients
The second day featured a cultural and herb identification hike through Donkerkloof. As the group walked the trail, they encountered ancient rock art and a Khoi burial site, gaining an understanding of the historical significance of the area. Along the way, Anneline introduced various medicinal herbs used by the Khoi tribes, offering a glimpse into the ancient healing systems that have endured through time. The youth were tasked with collecting four herbs, which were later used to brew herbal tea, which they enjoyed during break time. This experience highlighted the vital role that indigenous plant species play within cultural spaces, connecting the youth with their shared history and the evolution of healing systems.
In the afternoon, the group attended a session on owls, where Patricia Stutzer (Owl) discussed the mystical properties of these creatures and their connection to humans. Patrica has a background in the rehabilitation of birds of prey and specialises in saving owls as she lives near farming communities. This has inspired her to work more closely in educating farmers on the specific role of owls within the cycle of life, and the vital importance these birds of prey serve in keeping the balance within the farming ecological system. She dispelled myths surrounding owls, sharing a story of how changing perspectives on these birds helped a rat-infested village in Lesotho find a natural solution to pest control. This session emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting wildlife as part of our ecological and cultural heritage.
Day 3: Exploring the Medicinal Gardens of Joubert House
The final day of the workshop took place at Joubert House, the oldest building in Montagu, home to a renowned indigenous herb garden. With the assistance of Hilton Khoul ,the group toured the garden, learning about the medicinal properties of the plants cultivated there. The museum’s practice of packaging and selling these herbs to visitors helps preserve the knowledge of indigenous plants and supports the local economy.
After the tour, the group enjoyed a tea session with homemade milk tart, reflecting on the vital roles plants played in ancient traditional healing systems. This time with Anneline gave the participants a deeper understanding of how we are all connected through nature and the wisdom of plants. The visit to Montagu was not just an educational experience for the GCBR MAB-YOUTH members; it was a journey into the heart of African traditional medicine and a reminder of our powerful connections with nature. Through the knowledge shared by Anneline, the youth left with a renewed respect for the spiritual and medicinal value of indigenous plants, ready to apply these lessons in their own lives and communities.
About Anneline Mohammedt
Nestled in the beautiful town of Montagu, Anneline Mohammedt has found ways to share her creativity, spirituality, and love for plants with a broader audience beyond Montagu. She has reached people through workshops, TED Talks, theater presentations, and writing.
She used to write a column for the local newspaper. Although the newspaper is no longer published, locals still stop her to talk about the contributions she made through her writing. Anneline also coordinated the town’s heritage herbs project, showcasing her dedication to preserving indigenous knowledge.
In 2022, Anneline published her book When Plant Spirits Speak: An Infinite Journey of Observing and Allowing. The book reflects her deep connection with plants and how they have guided her through spiritual and emotional cycles. She pairs the characteristics of these plants with the traits of people who have embodied them in her life, offering readers a unique perspective on the interplay between nature and humanity.
More recently, Anneline discovered a new love for crocheting. In her creative journey, she has found innovative ways to infuse her crochet work with the essence of the plants she cherishes. This unique fusion of craft and nature allows her to weave the spiritual and medicinal properties of these plants into her creations. Each piece becomes not just a work of art but an expression of the deep connections between people, plants, and healing traditions. This adds another layer to the knowledge and skills Anneline shares with those she teaches, offering a holistic approach to understanding and celebrating indigenous plants.