MUST READ: 5 African mythological creatures

Africa is rich in cultural diversity, and often, Africa’s mythological creatures are pushed aside to make way for Hollywood’s monster features.

Take a look at some of our continent’s most beloved beasts!

Inkanyamba:

The Inkanyamba is a huge carnivorous eel-like animal, often found in legends of the Zulu and Xhosa people. Ancient legends say Inkanyamba’s can control the weather. These creatures are believed to have fins and grow to enormous sizes. While, there are actually freshwater eels in South Africa that grow to around six feet long, they are apparently found lacking compared to the stories of the Inkanyamba.

Impundulu:

The Impundulu or Lightning Bird is no ordinary  bird. Stories of this monstrous bird, which grows to the size of a human, can be found in Pondo, Zulu, and Xhosa folklore. This magnificent bird can apparently summon lightning and storms, hence the name. The bird is allegedly a shape shifter as well, that can appear as a human, and is sometimes a supernatural familiar that guards a witch or witch doctor. Due to its size and nature, it will attack people and drink their blood.

Grootslang:

Here is one creautre you do not want to meet! This monster allegedly lives in a cave called the Wonder Hole in the Richtersveld area. Legend has it the original Grootslang was found to be so powerful, the gods subdivided it into two species: the elephant and the snake. However, a Grootslang or two escaped this fate and reproduced. It is speculated the creature can grow up to 60 feet long.

Tokoloshe:

This little imp has got to be the most popular mythological creature in South Africa. The Tokoloshe is a gremlin in Zulu mythology. A witch doctor may send a Tokoloshe to jinx his enemies, causing anything from harmless fright to illness or death. They are described as short and hairy, with humanoid figures that can render themselves invisible by swallowing a pebble – all the better to sneak up on their victims.

Werehyenas:

Step aside Europe, with your nasty werewolves! Here in Africa, we have werehyenas. In Ethopia, it is believed that every blacksmith, whose trade is hereditary, is really a wizard or witch that has the power to change into a hyena. These blacksmith werehyenas are believed to rob graves at midnight, and are referred to as bouda.

Do you know of any more? Send your suggestions to Quinton Boucher at newsun@caxton.co.za