I don't think one can say that witch hunting is a direct result of colonialism or the search for a real identity no. Certainly Christian colonial attitudes towards Witchcraft influenced how indigenous religions were perceived by observers and continue to influence current attitudes to and beliefs about Witchcraft in Africa.

I am of the opinion that justifying Witch-hunts on the basis of cultural or traditional heritage must be condemned. We aught never to condone human rights abuses on the basis of what we believe.

But they have little to no faith, or they're tyring to grease the wheels to better their own eventual positions in the afterlife, and usurp his authority to do their own killing and punishing of "sinners."

Gives me little faith in the possibility of the possession of simple humanity by far too many monotheists.

It should be noted that the prejudicial stereotype generally promoted to characterize Witches in Africa (and elsewhere), automatically criminalizes and demonizes any person who may choose to self-define as a Witch. This kind of institutionalized scapegoating contradicts the letter and spirit of human rights law.

One might be forgiven for presuming that the Umthakathi in Africa is a flesh-devouring beast who travels on a hyiena and flies in a magic aeroplane to bring drought, famine and every manner of misfortune. It is a lie.

In the South African context real self-defined Witches do exist. We don't intend to hide or become victims of Witch-hunts. We cannot and will not accept human rights violations where Witchcraft is imputed.

We take the position that the prejudicial stereotypes which motivate fear of Witchcraft in Africa can and must be reformed. What better way to do that than by showing that real Witches do exist?!