Jamaican Rastafarian Elder Ras Ivi Tafari to Visit Malawi

Ras Ivi Tafari

Malawi’s Rastafarian community is set to welcome Jamaican musician and spiritual elder Ras Ivi Tafari, whose visit is expected to inspire a deeper understanding of Rastafari culture and philosophy among local followers, students, and creatives.

Ras Tafari, a revered figure in Nyahbinghi chanting, will engage with young minds during lectures at the University of Malawi and Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST). Organiser Richard Chisala believes his presence will offer a rare opportunity for Malawians to connect with a key figure in the global Rastafari movement.

"He has played a crucial role in shaping Rastafarian traditions worldwide. His chants and teachings have strengthened the faith and identity of many believers," said Chisala.

Arriving from South Africa on Wednesday via Chileka Airport, Ras Tafari will begin his visit with prayers at the Chileka Tabernacle, where he will meet members of the local Nyahbinghi order before commencing his engagements.

The Lost History Foundation credits Ras Tafari with contributing to Emperor Haile Selassie’s centenary celebrations in Ethiopia in 1992 and producing the Nyahbinghi Guidelines (1994), which have been instrumental in spreading Rastafari teachings across the world.

This visit follows in the footsteps of Burning Spear’s tour last year, marking yet another historic moment for Malawi’s growing Rastafarian movement.

Chisala hopes that Ras Tafari’s wisdom and experience will encourage Malawian youth to explore the cultural and spiritual dimensions of Rastafari, reinforcing its message of peace, unity, and African consciousness.