This paper explores the Gabonese Bwiti way of life. The related religious beliefs and practices were pioneered by the Babongo Pygmies and further formalised by the Mitsogo people of the Southern region of Gabon. Foremost, we consecutively cover what the term “Bwiti” refers to and the unique representations making up for its much celebrated richness and authenticity, conceding the primitive character of the religion and the shrub commonly used in Bwiti religious ceremonies. In the prospect of the highly anticipated African renaissance, returning to the primitive belief system is understood as a mainspring of authentic economic development across African nations. Then, in restoring Africa’s religious identity, the Bwiti tends to be regarded by a large number as the first religion practised by humanity. The stake is in reinstating the lost respect for African spirituality, including the observance of related ideologies and primitive codes of beliefs. Our humanity under mutation would most certainly benefit from a shift in religious paradigm whereby kinship becomes exalted among all human beings, tolerance among religious societies prevails, and in which developmental credos ideally embrace more environmentally friendly paths. Notwithstanding, the controversies around Bwiti still sustain Africa’s representation as both “the cradle and the tomb of humanity.”

References are not ready for this file yet, please refer to reference from the PDF file

Keywords

Iboga; Bwiti; Alkaloids; African Spirituality; Indigenous Religion.