The 2024 Study Abroad Trip organized by the African American Male Education and Development (A2MEND), traveled to southern Africa and stopped in Zambia, Botswana, and Mozambique. We gathered two staff members, nine board members, and nine student mentees—twenty Black males—who connected and discovered more about our cultural identities while in Africa.
Stepping off the plane, I felt joy in returning home. I was calm and grateful to be back in Africa for my eighth time! Like other A2MEND members, I was eager to learn and be my authentic Black self. My thoughts on the historical significance of returning to the African continent, especially with 20 Black men, are paramount to that feeling. We learned more about ourselves and were able to contribute love and pride to Africans on the continent.
I am an elder and referred to as Baba of the A2MEND organization. During the last leg of our trip, I turned 67 years old. Being an African and American can be conflicting at times. However, having the opportunity to learn more about the continent of Africa is rewarding as it helps me to know more about myself. I identify as a Black man working on healing myself. As an emeritus college professor who retired in 2022, I focus my time on myself, my family and as a Sound Therapist.
Culture Matters
The cultural significance is meaningful for Africans and Black men to learn from each other, especially as educators in the higher learning institutions of the California Community Colleges. We can inform more Black people in the USA about the importance of these cultural excursions. The spiritual significance may be the most significant of all. To remember and honor our ancestors gives us genuine pride and purpose. To pray together and breathe with one another adds to our primary scope of continuation and tribute of being a people who are humble and respectful to our past, present, and future.
Expectations and Contributions
My expectations were limitless. I came open to listening, observing, and exploring. I expected to gain more insight about who I am. I offered my love, experience, and knowledge to our mentees, members, and the people I connect with to show joy and peace, demonstrate healing practices, and encourage others to give thanks and calm their emotions.
As a Black man, I have always found the continent of Africa to be fascinating. Occasionally, I look at a map or a globe, examining the massive landmass with its broad shoulders and tapering tip, and I wonder what nation my ancestors were from. That is why I have always been more interested in the people and cultures of Africa. Nevertheless, I had yet to decide what to anticipate from Zambia. Comfort is essential when traveling, but I am not fussy and do not usually enjoy pampering. On the other hand, our Livingstone accommodations were beautiful!
Listed among the top resort hotels in Africa, these establishments offer abundant on-site activities to keep you occupied and scenic surroundings that guarantee a fantastic view from your chaise lounge. Located directly on the banks of the Zambezi River, the Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara offers outstanding accommodations with views of the river from every angle. Including the restaurant seating, spa rooms, hammock swings, and balcony bistro tables. Amazing views of the Zambezi and the thunderous sound of the falls
The Royal Livingstone is a prominent location on the Zambian side of the massive Victoria Falls, which crosses the Zimbabwean border. Visitors to this iconic five-star hotel may view the mist rising from the lake on its grounds. Even if the cuisine was under-seasoned for me, the opulent accommodations, welcoming service, and picturesque sunset view made it an incredible experience. The untamed creatures that stalked the hotel grounds were the most fantastic feature—everything from baboons to antelopes, giraffes, and zebras. Traveling to Victoria Falls, or what the local Batonga people had named Mosi-oa-Tunya, ‘the smoke that thunders,’ was majestic and impactful!
Imagining Africa
From the land, I see God and the wonders of the world. I see the buildings’ evolution and the elements of European and Arabic dominance. In the people, I see the reflection of myself and my family. I see the beauty and confusion of White colonialism. The food had the flavors and spices of the world. I saw and began to understand my life and existence more in music and dance. In the Livingstone region, elephants are scarcely unusual; besides impalas, they were the creatures I saw the most of throughout my trip, along with zebras and giraffes. All the encounters felt miraculous. The Big Five, the must-see sights for most African travelers, are frequently discussed in the context of safari travel. These are the elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, and rhino. I was able to see all but leopards.
We had the opportunity to cruise on the Zambezi River, or what the locals call “The Mighty Zambezi.” It was the ideal way to end our evening, watching the clamorous sunset that was so peaceful. The cruise ship staff provided snacks and a variety of drinks to passengers to quench their thirst. It was a very magical evening.
Northern Rhodesia’s name was changed to Zambia upon independence from the United Kingdom in 1964, under the independence leader and first President, Kenneth Kaunda. I had a fantastic experience in Zambia, officially the Republic of Zambia. There is so much beauty in the land, people, and wildlife. Seeing how people live with wild animals is uplifting and impactful. It reminds us that we are our God’s creatures and must exist together, not in dominance but in respect.
The capital of Zambia, Lusaka, is serene but has a contemporary urban vibe. Talking with the locals is pleasant, and they are hospitable. Restaurants, shopping malls, and leisure pursuits are just a few of the facilities that Lusaka offers. We had the opportunity to visit the Medical Division of the University of Lusaka and talk with faculty, staff, and students. Lusaka is a secure city with kind and beautiful people, and I hope to visit again soon.
Cultural Connection
My cultural reward was being enchanted by the people and their natural beauty. I felt connected and welcomed by the smiles and gestures of the people I encountered. Our dress, styles, music, and character have so many similarities. My Black man identity reflects my respect and love for myself and others. It impacts my position as an elder, educator, and sound therapist. I learn how I carry myself by listening and observing others and my surroundings by being present and staying calm.
Historical Learning
My first trip to Southern Africa has given me a new respect and meaning for this vital region. I may not have come away with a different political perspective, but I have a new respect for the people and the beauty of this region. Although I had not learned much about these countries before coming, I can now grasp the importance of visiting the five regions of Africa—West, East, North, South, and Central. I plan to travel to Central Africa to complete the list.
Challenges
The most challenging part was noticing how Europeans/Whites still dominate and control many aspects of African countries. And how most African women wear wigs and many of the people I encountered were wearing European and western styles of dress rather than African attire. I also had fewer encounters with traditional African cuisine.
Identity Reflection
I am African and a Black American man filled with pride and purpose! This journey has reinforced the importance and impact of the A2MEND study abroad excursions to Africa and my role. Being the Baba or elder of the group, I work on healing myself with anger, anxieties, and fears by helping to model a presence of calmness and gratitude. I am still hopeful about continuing my travels with A2MEND to Africa and learning about my true purpose! I aspire to make Africa my place of residency. I also want to do my work as a sound therapist, musician, and educator, helping people heal and joining hands as one people!
Moments of Gratitude
I give thanks to the A2MEND organization and brotherhood of Black men. I want to learn more about myself and other members. And continue to meet and engage with the mentees. I have appreciated the talks and reflections with Nana Lawson Bush, who gives me insight, wisdom, and spiritual comfort! The libations of gratitude for safe travels and offering to the energies that govern the area. Black men were open to sharing and developing their emotions and learning from one another. Spiritual cleansing in the water and becoming a group of Black men who believe it is vital to pay respect to nature and ancestral spirits.
Peace and blessings! Thanks to our ancestors and spirits. Asé
Baba- Doc T Elliott