Latest news with #CentralAfrican
Black America Web
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
The History of Mojo Bags: ‘Sinners' Spiritual Exploration Inspires Fans Awakening
Source: Anadolu / Getty Ryan Coogler's latest film, Sinners , delves deep into the spiritual traditions of the African American South, bringing to light the rich history and significance of mojo bags within Hoodoo practices. Social media users are going crazy for this new spiritual enlightenment. Read more and check out these viral videos exploring mojo bags inside. Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners intertwines elements of horror, history, and spirituality to explore themes of survival, faith, and cultural heritage. One of the most impactful scenes that has inspired fans spiritual journeys is the moment when Annie asks if Smoke still had his 'mojo bag.' Annie's faith and love for Elijah was so powerful that she poured everything she had into his mojo bag when they first met 20 years ago, protecting him on his journey. Mojo bags, also known as gris-gris or conjure bags, are small pouches filled with a combination of herbs, roots, minerals, and personal items, believed to hold spiritual power. Originating from West and Central African traditions, these bags were brought to the United States by enslaved Africans and became integral to Hoodoo practices. They served various purposes, from protection and healing to attracting love or prosperity. In Sinners , the character Smoke, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan, carries a mojo bag given to him by his lover Annie, a Hoodoo practitioner, symbolizing his connection to ancestral wisdom and spiritual protection . The film's portrayal of mojo bags has resonated with audiences, sparking discussions on social media about their historical and cultural significance. One Instagram post describes the film itself as a 'modern-day mojo bag,' suggesting that Sinners serves as a vessel for spiritual enlightenment and cultural preservation. This metaphor highlights the film's role in educating viewers about the depth and resilience of African American spiritual practices. Coogler's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity are evident throughout the film. He collaborated with scholars like Yvonne Chireau, an expert in African American religious history, to ensure accurate representation of Hoodoo traditions. The film's narrative, combined with its evocative visuals and haunting soundtrack, immerses viewers in a world where the spiritual and physical realms intertwine. Sinners not only entertains but also educates, offering an exploration of a rich cultural heritage often overlooked in mainstream media. By highlighting the significance of mojo bags and Hoodoo practices, the film invites audiences to reflect on the enduring power of ancestral traditions and the importance of preserving them for future generations. As Sinners continues to captivate audiences, it stands as a testament to the resilience and depth of African American spirituality, reminding viewers of the profound connections between past and present, tradition and innovation. Check out some of the mojo bag moments taking over social media below: The History of Mojo Bags: 'Sinners' Spiritual Exploration Inspires Fans Awakening was originally published on 3. Spoiler Alert: Ending Explained Source:YouTube Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
TimesLIVE
4 days ago
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
DRC ex-president Kabila makes first public appearance in rebel-held Goma
The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) former president Joseph Kabila appeared for the first time in public in rebel-held territory in the country's volatile east on Thursday, meeting with religious leaders in what participants said was a push for peace. Kabila, who has been out of the country since 2023, mostly in South Africa, is wanted in DRC for alleged crimes against humanity for supporting the insurgency in the east, including a role in the massacre of civilians. DRC has also moved to suspend his political party and seize the assets of its leaders. The former president's camp denies any ties to the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who have seized more territory than ever since January. He had been vowing to return to the Central African country for weeks to help find a solution to the conflict. His return could complicate Washington's plans for a peace agreement between DRC and Rwanda. Massad Boulos, Trump's senior adviser for Africa, told Reuters earlier this month the deal could be signed this summer, accompanied by minerals deals aimed at bringing billions of dollars of Western investment to the region. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi's government in Kinshasa this week accused Kabila of "positioning himself as the rebel leader" along with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
The Citizen
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Citizen
SANDF withdrawal from DRC at critical phase, says Maphwanya
The SANDF chief honoured the 14 South African soldiers who lost their lives in the DRC. The Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Rudzani Maphwanya, says the ongoing withdrawal of troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a critical stage. The phased withdrawal began on 29 April, following discussions between the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC). ALSO READ: 'We're in serious trouble': SANDF crisis deepens as leaders clash over its future The process follows a tragic loss of 14 SANDF members during clashes between the DRC military and the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC. The troops' withdrawal is expected to be completed by the end of May. While military personnel will be flown home, the equipment will need to be transported by sea. SANDF chief pays tribute to fallen soldiers Delivering the keynote address during the United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers International Day commemoration in Bloemfontein on Thursday, Maphwanya reflected on the cost of peacekeeping missions. The SANDF chief highlighted that achieving peace comes at a high price, with casualties and setbacks. He noted that more than 4 000 peacekeepers have died while serving under the UN flag. 'Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. Peacekeepers play a vital role in conflict zones, maintaining ceasefires, protecting vulnerable populations, and supporting the rebuilding of societies ravaged by war,' he said. READ MORE: What is taking so long? Why SANDF troops can't get a lift home Maphwanya honoured the 14 SANDF soldiers who lost their lives in the DRC, saying their 'sacrifice was not in vain'. 'Their toil, their blood, is the tree we see today, a tree bearing the nascent fruits of peace and stability in that nation. 'However, we are not under any illusion that our work is complete. We recognise that we are still a long way from achieving our ultimate goal of lasting peace and stability.' He reaffirmed the SANDF's commitment to peacekeeping efforts, stating that South Africa remains ready to support future missions in the DRC. 'SADC, along with other international entities, will continue to seek peaceful resolutions in the Central African nation.' SANDF withdrawal from DRC progressing Maphwanya also made it clear that the SANDF's departure should not be seen as abandoning the people of the DRC. 'As directed by our government, we remain prepared to support future peacekeeping missions in the DRC and elsewhere, whenever and wherever our expertise and dedication are required.' He further highlighted the logistical complexity of the withdrawal process. 'We are working around the clock with the SADC secretariat to ensure that we get all our people and equipment back from the eastern DRC. We are at a critical stage of the withdrawal of the contingent's equipment.' READ MORE: Concerns raised about 'disorganised' withdrawal of SA troops from DRC In addition, Maphwanya reiterated that the SANDF's objective remains to foster peace and stability through mediation and political engagement. 'War and peace are not opposites, but rather two sides of the same coin. While war is a brutal and destructive force, the pursuit of peace is a fundamental human desire that unites us all.' At least 2 500 SANDF troops were deployed in December 2023 as part of the SAMIDRC mission, replacing the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (Monusco) in eastern parts of the country. Watch the commemoration event below:
The Star
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Congo ex-president Kabila makes first public appearance in rebel-held Goma
Democratic Republic of Congo's former President Joseph Kabila gestures as he arrives for a meeting with religious leaders to help find a "solution" to the crisis in the country's eastern regions, where Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have seized significant territory, in Goma, North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, May 29, 2025. REUTERS/Arlette Bashizi GOMA (Reuters) -Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila appeared for the first time in public in rebel-held territory in the country's volatile east on Thursday, meeting with religious leaders in what participants said was a push for peace. Kabila, who has been out of the country since 2023, mostly in South Africa, is wanted in Congo for alleged crimes against humanity for supporting the insurgency in the east, including a role in the massacre of civilians. Congo has also moved to suspend his political party and seize the assets of its leaders. The former president's camp denies any ties to the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who have seized more territory than ever since January. He had been vowing to return to the Central African country for weeks to help find a solution to the conflict. His return could complicate Washington's plans for a peace agreement between Congo and Rwanda. Massad Boulos, Trump's senior adviser for Africa, told Reuters earlier this month the deal could be signed this summer, accompanied by minerals deals aimed at bringing billions of dollars of Western investment to the region. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi's government in Kinshasa this week accused Kabila of "positioning himself as the rebel leader" along with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Kabila received religious leaders on Thursday at his residence in Kinyogote, west of the city of Goma, said reporters, who were barred from filming the discussions. Dressed in a grey jacket and a blue shirt, the 53-year-old didn't speak to the press. "The former president... called us to express his wish to see peace return to the eastern part of the country and throughout the country," said Joel Amurani, president of the Interfaith Synergy for Peace and Mediation, a religious group, who attended the meeting. A close aide of Kabila's said the consultation sessions were aimed at learning about security challenges in the region and that political, administrative, military and civil society figures were invited to further discussions on Friday. It is unclear how long Kabila intends to stay in M23-held territory. The United Nations and Western governments say Rwanda has provided arms and troops to M23. Rwanda denies backing M23 and says its military has acted in self-defence against Congo's army and a militia founded by perpetrators of the 1994 genocide. (Reporting by Congo newsroom and Sonia Rolley in Paris; Writing by Ange Kasongo, Portia Crowe and Anait Miridzhanian; Editing by Robbie Corey-Boulet and Philippa Fletcher)
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Congo ex-president Kabila makes first public appearance in rebel-held Goma
GOMA (Reuters) -Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila appeared for the first time in public in rebel-held territory in the country's volatile east on Thursday, meeting with religious leaders in what participants said was a push for peace. Kabila, who has been out of the country since 2023, mostly in South Africa, is wanted in Congo for alleged crimes against humanity for supporting the insurgency in the east, including a role in the massacre of civilians. Congo has also moved to suspend his political party and seize the assets of its leaders. The former president's camp denies any ties to the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who have seized more territory than ever since January. He had been vowing to return to the Central African country for weeks to help find a solution to the conflict. His return could complicate Washington's plans for a peace agreement between Congo and Rwanda. Massad Boulos, Trump's senior adviser for Africa, told Reuters earlier this month the deal could be signed this summer, accompanied by minerals deals aimed at bringing billions of dollars of Western investment to the region. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi's government in Kinshasa this week accused Kabila of "positioning himself as the rebel leader" along with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Kabila received religious leaders on Thursday at his residence in Kinyogote, west of the city of Goma, said reporters, who were barred from filming the discussions. Dressed in a grey jacket and a blue shirt, the 53-year-old didn't speak to the press. "The former president... called us to express his wish to see peace return to the eastern part of the country and throughout the country," said Joel Amurani, president of the Interfaith Synergy for Peace and Mediation, a religious group, who attended the meeting. A close aide of Kabila's said the consultation sessions were aimed at learning about security challenges in the region and that political, administrative, military and civil society figures were invited to further discussions on Friday. It is unclear how long Kabila intends to stay in M23-held territory. The United Nations and Western governments say Rwanda has provided arms and troops to M23. Rwanda denies backing M23 and says its military has acted in self-defence against Congo's army and a militia founded by perpetrators of the 1994 genocide.
