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Exploring Ethiopia's Rastafarian Community

Dec 1, 2024

A Visit to Ethiopia's Rastafarian Diaspora

Overview

  • This segment explores a group of Rastafarians from Jamaica and the United States living in a rural community in Ethiopia.
  • They honor the late Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie as a black messiah.
  • The community is located nearly 200 miles south of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

Key Personalities and Beliefs

  • Empress Baby Eye:

    • 67 years old, originally from Jamaica.
    • Emigrated to Ethiopia around seven years ago with her husband.
    • Caretaker of the Nyahbinghi church in Shashemene.
    • Considers Haile Selassie as a god and personal savior.
    • Believes that Ethiopia is the true home for black people.
  • Ras Jabulani:

    • Reggae singer from Jamaica, currently in Shashemene passing through.
    • Discusses the historical context of land dedication to Africans in diaspora post-war.
  • Gladstone Robinson:

    • Rastafarian from Brooklyn.
    • Discusses Marcus Garvey's prophecy about Haile Selassie saving the black race.
    • Believes Haile Selassie's coronation as Emperor fulfills Biblical prophecy.

Historical Context

  • Marcus Garvey's Prophecy:

    • Predicted a king would rise from the east to save the black race.
    • Haile Selassie's 1930 coronation seen as fulfillment of this prophecy.
  • Back to Africa Movement:

    • Led by Marcus Garvey, influencing Rastafarians' migration to Ethiopia.
    • Without Garvey, the Rastafarian presence in Ethiopia might not exist.

Cultural Impact

  • Repatriation to Africa:
    • Seen as a way to escape materialism and lack of spirituality in other parts of the world.
    • Represents a return to roots for African descendants.

Conclusion

  • The community in Shashemene reflects the enduring influence of Haile Selassie and Marcus Garvey on Rastafarian beliefs.
  • The movement highlights a spiritual and cultural journey back to Africa for many in the diaspora.