They set the tone and the direction of Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egypt owed her brilliance to this Mystery System. Initiation to the Mystery System was very selective. It was not open to just anyone. Before initiation, the neophyte had to pass numerous tests of endurance, courage, and intelligence.
Secret societies are very common on the African Continent.
They exercise control over the community in addition to their role in the education process. These secret societies have many functions. Masks are created for specific functions. One of most important of such functions is the initiation of the youth into adulthood. For the African, life is a series of transitions.