Why Babalawo Is The Fastest Growing Religion In America- Reno Omokri ....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Reno Omokri, in his recent exploration of the Southern parts of the United States and the Caribbean, sheds light on the African roots present in the diaspora, emphasizing the growing influence of the Ifa Babalawo religion, particularly within the context of Santeria.
Omokri draws connections between African American dishes like Gumbo and red rice and their origins in African languages, particularly Wolof from Senegal. He notes that the popular African American soup Gumbo finds its linguistic roots in the Wolof word for okra, which is “Gombo.” Similarly, red rice is linked to Wolof Rice, the original name for what Nigerians and Ghanaians call Jollof Rice.
Highlighting the spread of African spirituality, Omokri points out that Ifa Babalawo is one of the fastest-growing religions in the Americas, forming a significant part of Santeria. He mentions that 5 million Americans in the United States adhere to Santeria, and Babalawo shrines are prevalent, especially in states like Florida.
Omokri visits a Babalawo shrine in Florida, owned by a white American named Uriel, underlining the broad acceptance of African spiritual practices in the region. He emphasizes the misconception among some white Americans that Santeria originates from Brazil, while in reality, it has deep Yoruba roots.
Drawing attention to the significant Yoruba population in Brazil, Omokri reveals that Brazil has more Yoruba people (120 million) than Nigeria (45 to 50 million). He also notes that the purest form of spoken Yoruba is found in Cuba, where it is taught in schools and used in churches.
Omokri continues his exploration in Tobago, Barbados, Antigua, Jamaica, Haiti, Belize, Turks and Caicos, Saint Lucia, Bermuda, The Bahamas, and other Caribbean islands, highlighting the popularity of Nollywood movies in these regions.
In conclusion, Omokri urges Nigeria’s Ministry of Culture to sponsor literary figures like Professor Wole Soyinka and Chimamanda Adichie, along with linguists and Nollywood celebrities, to tour the Black diaspora. The goal is to help people in the Americas and Caribbean discover and embrace their African roots, fostering unity among the Black community worldwide.
Source: Bushradiogist