I · An association
The association
A Gabonese NGO, founded in 1999, keeper of a transmission far larger than itself.
Ebando · Akanda, Gabon
Historical depth
Since 1999.
- 1971
- 1979
- 1994
- 1999
- 2022
II · Who we are
Ebando is a non-profit association under Gabonese law, based in Akanda, near Libreville. Founded in 1999, it carries a mission of passing on the Bwiti traditions, within two initiatory lineages: the Bwiti Fang Dissumba and the Bwiti Akèlè Simba Misoko-Ngondé. It welcomes visitors from Gabon, Africa, Europe and elsewhere, who wish to understand, to learn, or to live an initiation within the traditional framework.
Its members are Gabonese and foreign: teachers, craftspeople, traditional practitioners, musicians, gatherers, planters, fishers. The association maintains ties with the forest's first peoples, in particular the Babongo. The framework is that of an association, in the living sense of the word.
Three ways in
Each leads to a different threshold.
What we are
A Gabonese non-profit association dedicated to preserving the Bwiti traditions.
We pass on the rites of the Fang (Dissumba) and Akèlè Simba (Misoko-Ngondé) traditions, welcome visitors within a framed ceremonial setting, and account for ourselves publicly. Our lead guide is Tatayo, co-founder of Ebando, initiated into both traditions since 1979 and 1994.
What we are not
Not a wellness retreat, not a tourist centre.
We do not sell an experience. We are not a service provider. The visitor is not a customer. What is passed on here precedes us and is larger than us.
Bwiti appears to be one of the most important esoteric traditions of Gabon.
— Collective organising the LUTO seminar, 2000
Contribute
Contribute to the life of Ebando.
Ebando lives on the support of those who believe in its mission. If you would like to contribute to its life and its transmission, your help is welcome.
III · Going further