Friends of Yarmariya Bush
in partnership with Al Fitra
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Guardians Worldwide works with Al Fitra Academy in Kano, who is supporting several Maguzawa communities in Kano State, through communication and advocacy work around the Yarmariya Bush, an area considered to have spiritual powers by the local Maguzawa or Hausa Animists.
Cutting down of trees and burning is forbidden in this area, because the Maguzawa believe their ancestors reside in the trees. However, due to climate change related drought, many Maguzawa now say that the spirit of their sacred trees, such as the kuka or African baobab (Adansonia digitata), have been exiled.
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The tree worshiped most fervently by the community is the African Myrrh, or Dashi (Commiphora Africana), which is of outstanding importance to these people.
Kure, the main protector spirit, actually lives in this tree.
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The African Myrrh is an extremely valuable tree, producing plenty of food and medicine to cure fertility problems, wounds, gum disease, stomach problems, and much more.
It is a tree known for its longevity and continuity. Its stalks can be planted straight into the ground and regrown.
The Maguzawa are extraordinary tree guardians, because they know that health and life itself depends on the good life of trees!​​
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The sacred Dashi tree or African Myrrh (Commiphora Africana)