African Languages and Societies Commons^™

Yes, Rasta! : Authenticating Rastafarianism In A Coastal Kenyan Context, Katia Iverson

Augsburg Honors Review

The following research seeks to describe, organize and understand the perceptions and interpretations of Rastafarianism in Lamu, Kenya. Those who identify with Rasta are categorized by beliefs, goals and lifestyle and these facets are briefly compared to traditional Rastafarianism coming out of Jamaica in the early 1930s and globalized Rastafari movements today. The role of tourism, Kenya's colonial and post-colonial history, and Islamic tradition in Lamu's Rasta movement are also taken into consideration.