In Arabic, the family of words Amin, Iman or imam, imana designate faith, trust, security. This word is also present in the Swahili language (Kenya, Tanzania, East Congo Kinshasa) in the form imani: trust.
"The term Imana is not the equivalent of God-Goddess which is a Western vision of divinity. Indeed,: "the term "imana" does not designate above all a personal being that should be honored and implored, but a diffuse fluid that should be captured." In other words, Imana is a neutral vital force that manifests itself in the inner cosmos of each living being." ¹
Imana, by Michel Darlin Johancy is a musical, symphonic and spiritual journey through three geographies: an inner geography of meditation, a cultural identity journey and an artistic musical stroll. These three itineraries unfold in Haitian spaces.
This symphonic and spiritual journey takes place in 10 stages or 10 movements.
The opening of the doors is commanded by the saxophone which plays the role of a common thread. The opening is slow as in some symphonies. This slowness allows us to gently enter an atmosphere of travel and reflection. Musically, the opening is based on the dialogue between the choir, the guitar/piano duo and jerky percussions, katap katap type.
“Si mòn pa bay, lavil ap peri”: if the hill does not produce, the city will perish”. The quest for the mountain is doubled by other quests: the search for effort (monte mòn), the return to the countryside, which must be revalued, and also the search for elevation of the spirit. It is like a pilgrimage. We can also lighten our multiple burdens or problems by depositing them on the other side of the mountain.
The saxophone introduces this sequence. We hear like the noise of a crowd marching and an incantation, a repetition, like a mantra of the name of the divinity Oloroun, from the Afro-Brazilian Yoruba pantheon.
"Creator of the World, you who trace all things, make the rain fall." It is a call for a nourishing and invigorating rain.
"Pase m t ap pase", this refrain, symbol of the journey, is punctuated by the percussions that play in cadence.
This interlude marks a well-paced pause of very diverse percussions, between katap and rabòday.
“Writing so as not to disappear, because the wind carries away the words” (Van pote pawòl ale) says Darlin Johancy. He continues: “Writing what we say and what we produce”. It is a call to protect, safeguard our creative heritage. And then above all, he affirms “mete sèl anba lan nou! Let’s put salt under our tongues! Because salt protects us from the zombification that threatens us”.
First the sound of water in dialogue with the saxophone playing in soft flame, "an alchemical marriage" Darlin Johancy tells us, between water and fire. The choir returns, voices, murmurs, whispers, with, in parallel, a "marriage" katap rabòday. "It is not a coldly programmed composition", Darlin Johancy tells us, all this music and this spiritual journey met inside me. I had to put all this in harmony. It also corresponded to a time when I myself needed harmony. I hope that it will have a calming effect and conducive to meditation in those who listen to Imana. "
https://on.soundcloud.com/vwhiN
Rafael Lucas, Lecturer, teacher-researcher, University of Bordeaux Montaigne
IMANA is produced thanks to the support of the Swiss Cooperation in Haiti. Music credits:
Natzart: Lead and choirs
Ery Guillaume: Saxophone
Herbysson Pierre: Bass
Schneider Saint fort: Drums
Drums: maestro Lélé
DarlinJohancy: Composition, arrangements, production, lyricist.
¹.https://www.kugaruka.org/post/imana-le-culte-de-kiranga-ryangombe-uburundi-urwanda
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Since 2015, Pot’iwa Pizza has conquered the hearts and taste buds of the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. Founded by visionaries Jude Vaillant and Rock André, Pot’iwa Pizza has become a true gastronomic icon by offering a unique specialty: smoked herring pizza. This culinary creation has revived childhood nostalgia among many Haitians, marking the beginning of an exceptional culinary adventure. The very name of the company, "Pot’iwa", is a tribute to the Haitian regions where its founders were born. Jude Vaillant, originally from the "Iwa" region, and his accomplice Rock André, native of "Potino", have united their origins to create a company that harmoniously fuses tradition and innovation. Despite the socio-economic challenges that punctuate Haitian daily life, Pot’iwa Pizza is committed to constantly improving its services. This unwavering determination led to the opening of a second branch of the company, this time in the city of Cap-Haïtien, in the north of the country. The inhabitants of this region now have the privilege of tasting the famous herring pizza, previously reserved for the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince. Aware of the importance of protecting its culinary heritage, the company made a strategic decision by filing a patent in the United States to protect its specialty: herring pizza. Jude Vaillant, CEO of the company, shares his vision behind the choice of herring: "In Haiti, our childhood was rocked by a particular flavor, present in many traditional dishes. We decided to bring this flavor to an emblematic dish like pizza, to create a unique culinary experience." Pot’iwa Pizza embodies the passion, nostalgia and perseverance of Haitians for their traditional cuisine. It is a story of flavors and success that continues to seduce palates around the world. For those who want to taste this delicious herring pizza, go to Pot’iwa Pizza, located at 26 boulevard Cap-Haïtien, or contact them at +509-47-30-9090. And for fans residing in Miami, USA, Pot’iwa Pizza is also available at 12485 NE 6th CT, North Miami, FL 33161. To order, call 305-456-5152. Also explore the immersive experience of Pot’iwa Pizza through your smartphone or virtual reality headset, and dive into their mouth-watering menu by visiting the following link: https://haitiwonderland.com/haiti-virtual-reality-ht/ bar--restaurant/haiti--pot-iwa-pizza--virtual-tour/9.
The question of whether Haïti is on the African continent sometimes comes up, but the answer is clear: Haïti is not on the African continent. This island country is located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean and is part of the American continent, specifically Central America and the Antilles. However, the historical and cultural connection between Haïti and Africa is deep and deserves a more detailed exploration.
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Summer in Haiti, which generally runs from June to September, is a time marked by sunny days, high temperatures, and a lively atmosphere. If you are wondering what this season is like in one of the jewels of the Caribbean, here is what you need to know about summer in Haiti.
Le Paradis Haitien, a passionate community operating in the fields of tourism, history and heritage, has given itself the noble mission of discovering, knowing and promoting Haiti. This initiative goes well beyond simple tourism, as it aims to strengthen the connection between Haitians, whether they reside in Haïti or abroad, and their country, by offering unique and meaningful experiences. b~The Haitian Paradise Mission~b The mission of Paradis Haitien is clear and inspiring. It’s about reconnecting and connecting every Haitian, wherever they are, with their country in a way that transcends the usual clichés. They aspire to create a sense of belonging by offering unparalleled experiences that showcase the cultural richness and diversity of Haiti. By building and strengthening the “Haitian Narrative,” Haitian Paradise seeks to ensure that each individual reappropriates, defends and acts responsibly for the well-being and development of the country.
December 1 marked an exceptional moment for the Haitian community and beer lovers around the world, with the official launch of “Ewo” beer by Haitian entrepreneur Jhonson Napoléon. After the success of “Kola Choucoune”, already present in several countries, including the United States and Canada, it is the turn of “Ewo” beer to take the American market by storm. Available in several cities in the United States, this beer embodies the perfect marriage between tradition and innovation, offering consumers a unique taste experience. “Ewo” beer is much more than just an alcoholic beverage. It is a delight that skillfully blends the authentic flavors of Haitian culture with a touch of innovation. In a country where Prestige beer and Barbancourt rum have already conquered palates around the world, “Ewo” beer is proudly added to the list of Haitian taste treasures. Jhonson Napoléon, the man behind this new creation, continues to fly the colors of Haïti across the globe. His commitment to promoting quality Haitian products continues to strengthen the reputation of his country of origin. “Ewo” beer is not just a drink, it is a symbol of Haitian creativity and perseverance that transcends borders. This new step demonstrates the country’s ability to be part of the global trend for quality craft beers. “Ewo” beer is not only a leading local product, but it also stands out on the international scene as the representative of a rich and dynamic culture. The pride that Haitians feel for the success of Jhonson Napoléon and the growing fame of “Ewo” beer is palpable. It is a success story that transcends geographic boundaries and embodies the strength of the Haitian entrepreneurial spirit.
First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.
