South African ghosts

thumb|Newspaper headline, 7 December 1955

Amadlozi are African spiritual figures of the Nguni people. The Nguni people believe that these entities can be summoned for assistance and protection. This belief plays an integral part in explaining some of the attitudes Nguni people have around subjects such as fertility, life, death, fortune, and misfortune. Amadlozi are also believed to have the power to guide their people towards a life of purpose and integrity. These figures are also said to be governed by superior spiritual beings known as iThonga. iThonga is regarded as primary custodians of umsamo (Nguni's physical and spiritual cent