Reggae in the Mountains

“No people can make their full contribution to life of the nation to which they owe allegiance unless they possess and enjoy those few fundamental prerequisites to rendering their participation in the affairs of their country both possible and significant. The growth of a people is complex and interrelated. Man must be educated. He cannot come into grips with or cope with or understand the modern world unless he has been taught about it. He must be assured of a minimum economic security: he cannot concern himself with matters going beyond the day to day satisfaction of his physical needs unless he is fed and clothed and sheltered, nor can he acquire a sufficient degree of social consciousness to be able to subordinate his own personal interests to the good of the nation and the development of its society. Freedom, Liberty, the rights of man - these mean little to the ignorant, the hungry, the ill-clothed and the badly housed.” H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I.

Ever thankful for LIFE.

Hoping this finds you, Dear Reader, very well.

First off, is to thank all of you who took up our invitation from our last post, and attended our last event in the physical. It is always good to link up, for the countenance of one brightens another’s. To all those who stand with the same principals of freedom and a higher natural living, including ones we have not been granted to meet in person yet, MAINTAIN!

A solemn moment of thanksgiving

The seventh day of December witnessed the members of the H.I.M Negus Shiriki C.B.O come out to the public, to allow more access for people to share the warmth of interaction and  natural wisdom. It was part of the continued materialization of our endeavors to reach to our community. This with a view to stimulating considerations as to how we can all unshackle ourselves from oppressive labors and live a more fulfilling life. We were joined by family, more volunteers and community workers, community members of all ages, as well as government officials.

The area government administrator representing

The event, dubbed Reggae in the Mountains and themed ‘Ukulima na Maendeleo’ (Agriculture and Development) took place at the Gakoigo Showgrounds, a government facility where public events such as national holidays, agriculture fairs, soccer matches and such are held.  The process of obtaining the facilities took us through the whole compliment of government hierarchy. All of them were happy with what we are doing to serve our community, and we were well attended to. For we are aware that successful community development is in effect a partnership between the people and the government. The people identify their need and commence on their efforts to fulfill them. The government joins in to support through infrastructure, expertise and other forms of representation.

The advertising poster

The build up to the event presented the volunteers with the opportunity to move to far reaches of the region to sensitize the people. These were useful excursions, giving opening to pledges towards visiting our farm. Some of these pledges are already bearing fruit.

Our intention was to gather the people through music vibes, and in this forum share with them the different aspects of our work. Through live performances, poetry, Dj mixing and a speech or two (strictly) we sought to express some of the inescapable truths facing us. Agriculture as the backbone to our survival, the power of collective security, the courage to stand for, and if ever need be, lose our physical bodies to ensure that our fellow man, creatures and creation as a whole moves free.

Distinguished in their dignity, the volunteers, in the true manner of an organized nation, represented the different departments. Agriculture, art, music, media and information and holistic living were among the fields showing.

The agriculture department showcased the fullness of the earth. There was a splendor of harvest dripping from the tables, a marvel in its lusciousness. Banana, including a rare red indigenous variety, whose seed we are re-establishing was prominent. As well, there was cassava, sugarcane, sorghum, lemongrass, oranges, zucchini, pineapple, avocado, spinach, cloves, coconut, and cinnamon to mention but a few. All naturally grown.

Natural vitals

The arts were represented in a most colorful display. On exhibition were sandals, clothing items, paintings, ornaments and jewellery, mosaics and more. It is ultimately satisfying to affirm that the people, and especially the youth can actually realize their economic sustenance from utilizing their art skills. It proves that the avenues for self-reliance are wide open. It is subsequently appropriate to nurture quality and then to support the same through purchasing local.

Art display

One of the main highlights of the occasion was the food table, where the Shiriki volunteers not only served up a feast, but also valuable education on nutrition and health. From the naturally grown variety, we offered banana cakes, cassava chapati, arrow root bhajia, boiled sweet potatoes, numerous fruit, and herb teas brewed in an African pot on the spot. Alternatively, you could chew on a piece of sugarcane or heal with fruit and vegetable juices.

The satiation

There was a rich library of published material dealing with various pertinent topics; wisdom of ages, natural living, organic farming, herbal healing and practical skill. In addition, the attendants were able to share tips on issues affecting our ecosystems and environment in general, even take a tree seedling home.

Some took time to gather knowledge

Music was served up by the lively Jah Living Fire Crew, Djs and mike chanters. Rarely is serious business presented in such a palatable manner, yet they effortlessly managed to do it. The audience appreciated the deliberate intention to use this medium strictly as a tool for alerting the consciousness. The Fire Crew delivered this while simultaneously exemplifying the talents and hard work which goes into any task to make it a success.

Jah Living Fire DJ Ngloss

In recap, an event such as this provides an occasion for healthy community contact, showcases the ongoing works of the volunteers, gifts the people the chance to inquire, exposes talents, opens trade opportunities, and sets more stepping stones for continued mutual development and growth.

The presentation

We are thankful for all the volunteers who, through grace and good intention open up their hearts and with it all their faculties and strengths that these works can be tended to. We are truly humbled to be a part of this.

Our invitation to you Dear reader, to join hands as we move forward, stands.

Forever Peace.