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Unripe plantain porridge holds a special place in Igbo culture, not just as food, but as medicine and memory. This piece looks at its roots as a healing meal, its preparation with local ingredients, and the blend of traditional and scientific views that affirm its value.
What if a god’s most profound gift was not an endless supply of miracles but the freedom to choose? Step into the Maasai’s unique world, where their god, Enkai, gave cattle as an initial gift, laying the groundwork for their entire culture.
This article examines Legba, the Fon and Ewe deity who stands as the gatekeeper between humanity and the spirit world. The piece highlights his role in guiding, blessing, and punishing mortals, and shows how his presence continues in African and diaspora traditions, including Haitian Vodou.
The Chisungu initiation rite among the Bemba of Zambia is a structured process that guides girls into adulthood. Through education, discipline, and ritual, it shapes identity and prepares them for their roles within the community.
Waakye (pronounced “wah-chay”) isn’t just rice and beans; it’s a Ghanaian classic with a story to tell. This article highlights its many variations and traces how the dish journeyed across the Atlantic, leaving its mark on food cultures far beyond Ghana.
Hibiscus sabdariffa is more than a vibrant drink ingredient, it’s a plant with deep historical roots and remarkable health properties. From its role in traditional cultures to modern scientific research, this piece looks at how hibiscus has endured as both a cultural staple and a subject of cutting-edge study.
In Zulu belief, the living are never truly separated from the ‘living-dead.’ At the center of this connection stand the izangoma, diviners chosen to speak with the ancestors. But what does it take to become the sole voice between worlds?
Ṣọ̀pọ̀na, known in Yorùbá belief as one of Olodumare’s punitive deities, holds a complex role in traditional religion. Associated with both disease and healing, he embodies functions that address punishment and restoration. This piece examines his attributes, responsibilities, and place within the broader Yorùbá spiritual framework.
Teff is one of the world’s tiniest grains, but its nutritional and historical significance is anything but small. Take a look at how its unique structure preserves its full nutritional value and explore its role in feeding generations across time.
How has West Africa dealt with its role in the history of slavery? This article reflects on Emancipation Day and looks at the need for open dialogue and renewed connection with the global Black diaspora.
This article explores the healing power of Justicia carnea, a plant known for its bright red flowers and medicinal value. It examines its traditional uses, cultural symbolism, and ongoing role in natural healthcare across Nigeria.
This article explains the history of Ikpirikpi Ogu, the Ohafia war dance, and how it has changed over time. It shows how a dance that once showed a warrior’s strength is now used to celebrate Ohafia identity and teach younger people about their past.
How does one become a respected man in the Senufo community? Discover and explore the Senufo Poro society's hidden ceremonies, which put genuine adulthood to the test through rigorous spiritual and mental training as well as nonverbal instructions.
Among the Dan people of west-central Côte d'Ivoire and northern Liberia, Gle masks aren't just carved objects sitting behind glass. This exploration dives into how the entities behind these masks function as both spiritual guardians and problem-solvers in Dan society.
This article centers on how initiation rites are identified as a rite of passage from childhood to adulthood among African traditional communities. It explains the significance of these rites in the traditional sense, focusing on the Senufo People of Côte d’Ivoire.
Among the Hausa people of Northern Nigeria, physical objects such as charms, amulets, and ritual instruments are not merely symbolic—they are believed to contain or attract spiritual forces.
The Ojude Oba Festival is an annual celebration by the Ijebu-Yoruba people that blends Islamic faith, Yoruba kingship, and traditional culture to honor the Awujale. It reinforces communal identity and heritage through age-grade processions, music, dance, regalia, and horse-riding displays.
The film Sinners (2025) explores the relationship between African diaspora spirituality, ancestral presence, and African traditional religions. It examines how these elements intersect, reflect, and reinterpret indigenous African belief systems in contemporary contexts.
Death isn't the end—it's just the beginning of an incredible journey home. This article will take us through the world of Yorùbá Ìsìnkú practices and taboos, where funeral rites aren't just about saying goodbye but about ensuring safe passage through the afterlife.
Ever cracked an egg and found the universe inside? The Dogon cosmic egg cracks open questions about the transmission of knowledge, the nature of human observation, and the complex relationship between mythology and empirical understanding.
Consider the passage of time intertwined with environmental observations and words left behind by spirits. This article dives into how the Igbo man calculated time despite having no prior awareness of its existence.
The article offers a glimpse into Yoruba-language cinema, which has evolved from a rich oral and theatrical heritage to emerge as a dynamic canvas for visualizing Oríkì, the Yòrùbá praise poetry.
This article aims to delve into Obasi's cinematic portrayal of Mami Wata, examining its relationship to traditional lore and considering the broader context of how African cinema engages with its rich variety of gods, spirits, and myths.
In 2023, Netflix brought the urban legend of Madam Koi-Koi to global screens with "The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi," Nollywood's first horror series on the platform. But the question is, did they get her right? Let's compare the ghost we grew up fearing to her slick new streaming makeover.
This article explores how Mambéty channeled the essence of griot storytelling into the medium of film, creating works that honor traditional oral poetics while pushing the boundaries of cinema itself.
This article emphasizes African roots in the birth of Brazilian Capoeira. It takes us back to the life of the enslaved Africans in Brazil, under the Portuguese colonists, and how their struggle and resilience shaped the art we now know as Capoeira.
Ever seen those gorgeous geometric patterns in movies about Haiti? Those aren't just fancy floor decorations—they're vèvè, the spiritual calling cards of Haitian Vodou. This article will delve into the evolution of these ground drawings, from their potential roots in Dahomean traditions to their sacred and symbolic role in contemporary Haitian Vodou.
Mamlambo isn’t the typical nurturing or protective goddess many might expect. Originating from South African folklore, she’s often described as a powerful water spirit with the ability to shape-shift. In this article, we’ll explore her origins, the legends that surround her, and what makes her one of the most distinctive figures in African mythology.
The ancient Egyptians believed that death marked the beginning of a soul’s journey to eternal life. Central to this belief was the Duat — the Egyptian underworld — through which the soul had to travel. This article explores the twelve gates of the Duat, the guardians who watched over them, and the meaning of each stage in the soul’s passage to eternity.
This article gives an interesting insight into the history of the female Yoruba deity Ọ̀ṣun, her origin and the Ọ̀ṣun Òṣogbo.
The Vai script is one of West Africa's best-documented ancient writing systems, and thanks to this remarkable fit, modern historians and the Vai people themselves can trace their origins and understand their ancestral way of life.
The text explores three African trickster figures—Anansi, Eshu, and the Hare—who use cleverness to outwit others and challenge social norms. Though from different cultures, they all highlight the power of intelligence over strength.
Despite the hardships of the slave trade, African spiritual traditions endured, carefully preserved and passed down through generations. Today, several religions stand as powerful testaments to the resilience and intentional efforts of diasporic communities to uphold their cultural and religious heritage.
Centuries of migration, enslavement, and resettlement have spread Africans—and their food—across the globe. It's fascinating to see how dishes from distant countries share striking similarities, yet reflect subtle local twists.
The article explores Nsibidi, an ancient writing system traditionally used among the Efik, Igbo, and communities in present-day Cameroon.
This article explores the significance of the falcon in Egyptian culture, both ancient and modern. Long associated with divine vision and power, the falcon symbolized protection, kingship, and a connection to the gods, especially in the form of Horus, the sky god.
This article explores the history of the Oyo Empire, a once-powerful Yoruba force that dominated centuries ago. It traces the empire’s rise, fall, and the unique systems that sustained its existence.
Oriire is introducing monthly writing prompts for paid submissions.
For the Babur, marriage is planned right at the birth of the bride. Like an investment, it is nurtured and watched carefully untill the celebration of they union.
This captivating story will take you on a journey through the Legend of the Great Warrior Lisabi and the Egba community in Western Nigeria.
Deep within central Nigeria, an ancient civilization once flourished, leaving behind a legacy as mysterious as it is captivating. Known as the Nok culture, this society thrived between 1500 BCE and 500 CE, predating many prominent civilizations in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ngorda dance is the signature dance of the Terawa people of Gombe State, Nigeria.
This article tells the story of Princess Inikpi, a courageous young woman who made the ultimate sacrifice for her people. Her bravery and selflessness have become an important part of Igala culture and tradition.
In the heart of Benin City, where ancient myths still cling to the air like morning mist, whispers of Ovia echo through the cobbled streets. A deity of peace and providence, Ovia emerged during a time of unrest, bringing with her a cloak of tranquility and fostering harmony among the people.
This article sheds light on the war between the Esan and Nupe people, the causes, and the effects.
In most tribes in the world, the creator of the world is regarded as a male. But among the Ijaw people of Nigeria, the world is created by a female (Woyengi). This is the Ijaw creation story of humans, and a woman who tries to fight her creator.
This article unveils the Igbo people’s pattern of apprenticeship that has produced wealthy businessmen and a better economy in Southeastern Nigeria.
This article features the once-top natural relaxation spot in Lagos. It also details its transition to the now Eko Atlantic.
This essay tells of the myth of Ayelala, the Goddess of Justice who never tolerated crime. Read and be thrilled.
Yaa Asantewaa is a formidable female personality in Ghanaian history. This article delves into her life, the sociopolitical context of her time, her legendary leadership during the war, and her enduring legacy.
The history of Modjadji is one from the Balovedu tribe of South Africa. The article delves into the significance of this personage and her importance to the people of her tribe.
This article explores the Igbo concept of chi, or personal gods, and explains its role in traditional belief systems. It also highlights the significance of chi in shaping modern Igbo spirituality.
Olumo Rock, located in Abeokuta, Nigeria, is a historic landmark and symbol of Egba resilience. The rock served as a refuge for the Egba people during 19th-century inter-tribal wars. Lisabi Garden, the Cave, and the Peak comprise Olumo Rock, each telling stories of Egba history and culture. Today, Olumo Rock represents the Egba people's unwavering determination and cultural heritage.
Nigeria's economy once thrived on agricultural exports, particularly cocoa and groundnuts. This article explores the rich history of these products and how they contributed to the country's economy before the oil boom.
The Article explores the tradition of Ashanti Umbrellas how they are made and their significance.
The topic IGIOGBE, focuses on succession in the native Bini Kingdom which transcended into the modern Benin Kingdom. This essay sheds light on the idea behind inheritance and the spiritual implication inclined with first born sons inheriting the IGIOGBE title.
The article explores the traditional plays of the Igbo culture and its impact on society.
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