LCA celebrates Jewish new year at Sweetwaters Farm
The Lemba Cultural Association celebrated the Jewish New Year at Sweetwaters Farm, preserving their culture and traditions.
LIMPOPO – On Saturday, members of the Lemba Cultural Association (LCA) from across South Africa gathered at Sweetwaters Farm near Elim to celebrate the Jewish New Year.
Established in 1948, the LCA represents the Lemba people, often referred to as the ‘Black Jews’ due to their deep-rooted connections to Jewish traditions and culture.
Among the attendees were notable figures, including Julius Malema, the president of the EFF and a member of the Lemba tribe.
Phineas Malima, the general secretary of the LCA, highlighted the association’s mission to preserve the Lemba culture, oral traditions and history.
“We aim to keep our culture and history alive by teaching the younger generation, achieving our goals, and strengthening the Vhashavhi nation,” he said.
Frederick Mutenda, LCA president, said the day marked the anniversary of human creation and celebrated the special relationship between humanity and God.
“Our year is 5 783. We gather to acknowledge God’s creation of the earth and life, and to blow the shofar (ram’s horn) as a symbol of His presence,” he explained.
Mutenda also stressed the importance of involving youths in the association’s activities, encouraging them to start their own businesses and contribute to the advancement of the Lemba tribe.
“We want them to be self-reliant and to support each other as they help move the Lemba tribe forward,” he added.
