Or listen on:
Become a free member to get the monthly roundup, unlock more challenges, comment on articles and bookmark your favourites
Quiz
Think you know African mythology? Match each being to their legend and prove your knowledge.
The goddess Nana Buluku is an important figure in West African mythology, particularly in the spiritual beliefs of the Fon people of Benin and the Yoruba people of Nigeria. This ancient myth has been passed down from generation to generation, serving as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Fon people shaping their beliefs and traditions. Interesting right? Listen to this episode as Florent takes us on this ride.
If you ask me I would say Jollof is sweet, and Egusi and pounded yam is probably the holy grail of Nigerian food. But that’s me and I’m Nigerian. Why don’t we hear Aikido's perspective on Nigerian food? You can call this the Nigerian Food Review. Listen, share and comment.
Yam festivals are unique to many African tribes, and each tribe has its distinct uniqueness. In this episode, Anita shares more insight and her experiences having witnessed the Iri-iji festival of Mbaise, Imo state. Hit play to listen.
The story is about the Yoruba people in Southwestern Nigeria who revere twins as magical beings representing fertility and prosperity. Twins are associated with an Orisa named Ibeji, and the Yoruba tradition includes creating a replica if one twin passes away. Twins are named Taiwo and Kehinde, with Kehinde considered the firstborn in the spiritual world. The Yoruba society celebrates twins as a source of great joy and good fortune, and some towns, like Igbo-Ora, are known for an unusually high number of twin births.
The essay explores the belief in spirits and ancestral spirits in Igbo mythology, highlighting their roles and interactions with the living. It emphasizes the enduring significance of these spiritual entities in Igbo culture, fostering a sense of connection, guidance, and unity within the community.
In this detailed piece, the Yoruba belief of the afterlife is explored, shedding light on the spiritual journey of the soul beyond the mortal realm. The article elucidates the concepts of "Orun," the realm of the ancestors, and "Aye," the earthly world. It delves into the rituals and practices performed by the Yoruba people to honor their ancestors and ensure their safe passage to the afterlife. The rich tapestry of Yoruba cosmology and the enduring significance of ancestral connections are beautifully captured.