(S)places and peace of (s)place: Venḓa’s sacred sites

Abstract

This article explores the concept of (s)place. Drawing from Lefebvre's Conceptual triad, Soja's Thirdspace, and Massey's Progressive sense of place, it unveils the nuanced meanings embedded within (s)place and its significance in understanding contemporary spatial dynamics, particularly within the African rural context. Through a qualitative investigation of sacred sites in the Venḓa region, this work recognises the intangible values embedded within these spaces, which are crucial elements of identity, well-being, and sense of place for VhaVenḓa communities. The core argument centres around the necessity for cognitive, spatial, and epistemic justice in crafting what de Sousa Santos dubs a pluriversal world that acknowledges and respects diverse knowledge systems without succumbing to epistemic violence, in this case, the legacy of colonial-apartheid planning. By coining (s)place, this work contributes to the discourse of planning in Africa, offering a decolonial lens through which to view and engage with spaces and places.