Anansi

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.