An eye-opening experience for our students today as they discover that despite all the endangered listings of species, and the supposed protection that they receive; many are still slaughtered and sold in the open at Muthi markets.

Muthi markets are markets that sell particular ‘medicines’, it is a part of Zulu culture. There are many beliefs and superstitions about different animals and animal parts, so walking around this market can be both and upsetting and enraging event – as our students found out today.

It is important however that the students understand that despite being protected – this means very little.

Below are a few pictures of what was present.

The students walk around the muthi market

Vulture - supposedly gain the ability to see into the future

Monkey - supposed to ward off evil spirits, drinking blood has other 'spiritual' advantage

Faces after the market - didn't last long though as there was a colourful indoor market to explore

On the brighter side however the students had a chance to explore the traditional Victoria market – spices, clothing, bags, paintings, watches, parrots, meat, veg, books e.t.c

Particularly popular were the sheep heads – we didn’t take any photos of those as the facial expressions were much more amusing!! Especially when they realised they were for eating

After the market everyone was happily showing off their new purchases – or even other peoples.

At least he claimed it wasn't his...