Sechele Becomes A Christian

Besides assisting in the purchase of superior weapons technology and acting as a propagandist against Boer oppression, the missionary is remembered for having converted the Mokwena to Christianity.

Sechele’s decision to be baptised was a source of great domestic controversy. Prominent among the concerns raised was the fate of the Kgosi’s four junior wives, whom he had agreed to put aside in keeping with the Christian injunction of monogamy. In addition to the bitterness of the families whose daughters were no longer recognised, Sechele’s conversion compromised his spiritual role as the initiator of regiments, rainmaker and practitioner and patron of other forms of medicine, magic and ritual associated with his high office.