MALAWI: Rastafarians Celebrate Haile Selassie’s Coronation In Lilongwe

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

The Rastafarian community in Lilongwe, Malawi, has gathered for a three-day convention, starting yesterday and culminating at Area 17’s Nyahbinghi venue. 

The event commemorates the 1930 coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie, whom Rastafarians revere as the Almighty, King of Kings, and Conqueror of the Judean foe.

Activities include workshops, cultural performances, chanting, and music, with festivities running through the night.

“We Rastas are like lions that devour their prey, while others see us as mere animals or beasts that feed on grass,” says Ras Chikomeni, a respected Rastafarian elder.

This convention holds global significance for the Rastafarian movement, also known as the “Coronation of His Imperial Majesty.”

Ras Chikomeni expressed disappointment that Rastafarians are often marginalised in Malawi.

“For instance, when legendary reggae artist Burning Spear came to perform, we expected him to join us at Nyahbinghi, but unfortunately, he was diverted to a cathedral instead,” he said.

The convention serves as a platform for unity and celebration among Malawi’s Rastafarian community.