Sjambok

A sjambok (also spelled sambok or shambok) is a heavy leather whip, traditionally made from rhinoceros or hippopotamus hide, though now commonly crafted from more readily available materials like plastic or rubber. It is typically about a meter in length and tapers from a thick butt to a thinner lash. The name is derived from the Indonesian word "cambuk" (whip), which was adopted into Afrikaans.

Historically, the sjambok was used as a herding tool for livestock, a means of self-defense, and as an instrument of punishment. In southern Africa, it has been associated with law enforcement, particularly during the apartheid era, contributing to its controversial image. It remains in use in some rural areas as a working tool, but its historical association with violence and oppression means its use is often viewed critically. The sjambok's construction makes it a formidable weapon, capable of inflicting significant pain and welts without necessarily breaking the skin. Its flexibility allows for a whipping motion that can be difficult to defend against.

While its use as a tool persists in some communities, the sjambok is primarily known for its controversial past and its association with violence and authority in southern Africa. Its modern presence is often met with concern and ethical considerations due to its history.