Report on the Lemba Conference
Elim, South Africa
September 9, 2017
Rabbi Joshua V. Salter
The 58th Annual Lemba Cultural Association Conference was held on September 9, 2017 in Sweetwaters, Elim, South. It was terrific and wonderful! The theme of this conference was “Love Conquers all”. Lemba Champlain Doctor David Tshidada opened the program with a scriptural reading and I was introduced as our very own “Lemba Priest.” I then gave an opening blessing and prayer to begin the glorious proceedings. This was the first Lemba Cultural Association that I have attended where L.C.A. President, Ishe David Mungulwa, was not in attendance because of health issues. Please remember to lift him up in your prayers at this holy season.
During the conference there were great times of joy accompanied by songs, singing, dancing, and celebration of Lemba Hebraic African Culture and Identity. We were reminded of our historical and biblical past. Mushavi Frederick Mutenda spoke eloquently about “Who we are. Where we are. And where our inheritance resides.” After his fact-filled walk through African Jewish legacy and history, we were treated to a keynote address by former Deputy Minister Musoni Rejoice Mabundafhasi who implored the elders and adults to teach and inspire the youth to keep and grow the Lemba community. We were treated to more Lemba Cultural songs and a special youth performance by a musical artist named “Sadiki,” who excited everyone with his performance. I was asked to give fraternal greetings; I spoke about the great relationships that have been forged between Lemba Jews and African American Jews, between the International Israelite Board of Rabbis and Lemba Community, and especially with the Lembas of South Africa and Zimbabwe. I also spoke on the want and need and aspiration to teach Torah and the Hebrew language to the Lemba youth who want desperately to learn. They understand the need for a temple and culture center here in South Africa. We believe that the time is now to embark on these endeavors and to learn to live as Jews. The time is now to fulfill the vision and legacy of the late Great Prof. Mer Mathivha זצ״ל (May his memory be for a blessing) who visited Chicago in 1994 and spoke concerning African American Jews and Lemba Jews building a strong sustainable relationship. The presentation was well received by the attendees and I was overwhelmed with requests for information and received many local invitations to visit Lemba in various parts of this vast country during my stay in South Africa.
I am scheduled to be in South Africa until November 14th and I certainly would like to go to Zimbabwe before I am scheduled to depart for the United States. At the conclusion of the conference, I was asked to give a closing prayer, priestly benediction, and prayer for the food. We finished with great shouts of HalleluYahs and Amens. A great time was had by all attending and we are looking forward to the next Lemba Cultural Association Conference. The conference was attended by over 1000 attendees including local and long distance dignitaries. I made a vow to the Creator and a promise to these people many years ago. With the help of the Israelite community, we can continue this mission to build stronger and deeper relationships our Lemba family. If you find it in your heart to financially contribute to this work, please do so through the Black Jews donation link with attention details: Rabbi Joshua V Salter Lemba Project.
Thank you,
Rabbi Joshua V. Salter