The Significance of the First Fruits of the Land at the Kwanzaa Festival
December 27, 2023
"Experience the vibrant celebration of Kwanzaa in Barbados, as the Pan-African community gathers in unity to honor its traditions, values, and culture. Learn about the history of this harvest festival and its significance."
As the island’s Pan-African contingent and supporters celebrated the beginning of Kwanzaa yesterday, the flames of the mishumaa saba (seven candles) illuminated the principles of love and reciprocity.
The ceremony, which was held at the Ivy Community Centre in the Ivy, St Michael, was attended by prominent members of the Pan-African community, Barbadian nationals and Ghanaian visitors in observance of the Pan-African holiday.
History, family values, community and culture were celebrated in music, traditional African drums, as well as song and dances.
Celebrating the Earth, an offering of melons, cabbage, apples, tomatoes – the ‘matunda ya kwanza’ (first fruits of the land) were presented on the stage, where the bishop Marcus Walrond blessed the produce.
The holiday created by activist Maulana Karenga in 1966 is based on harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa. It is celebrated from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu on the sixth day. (JRN)
