VOICED : Promised land? Rastafaris struggle in Ethiopia

Rastafarians in Shamani, Ethiopia, celebrate their Messiah, Haile Selassie, but face challenges such as lack of citizenship and land rights. The Ethiopian World Federation advocates for their rights, while the community remains divided. Despite difficulties, some Rastafarians remain optimistic about their future in Ethiopia.

What was the original purpose of the land gifted to the Rastafarians in Shamani?

• To build a new capital city

• To create a tourist attraction

• To serve as a place for former slaves and black rights activists

• To establish a commercial hub

What is one of the main challenges faced by the Rastafarian community in Ethiopia?

• Inability to obtain Ethiopian citizenship

• Poor transportation infrastructure

• Lack of access to clean water

• High crime rates

What is the Ethiopian World Federation's role in the Rastafarian community?

• To organize cultural festivals

• To provide educational scholarships

• To manage local businesses

• To lobby the government for land and rights

How does the French Rastafarian view the future of the community?

• Optimistically, seeing a bright future

• Indifferently, with no strong opinion

• Negatively, expecting more challenges

• Pessimistically, believing the community will dissolve

Approximately how many Rastafarians currently live in Ethiopia?

• 500

• 1000

• 1500

• 2000