Bob Marley’s influence in Zimbabwe

I have to admit that Bob Marley was my first introduction to Zimbabwe, with his song, “Zimbabwe.” Well, he is also an influence for Zimbabweans. When he came here for the independence celebrations in 1980 he popularized Rastafarianism. People loved the idea of dreadlocks, modest dress, and even the colors-- Rasta colors are Zim’s colors too! The Rastas also brought the ideas of vegetarianism, organic gardening and self-reliance to Zimbabwe… which helped spark the permaculture movement. I was told that many high school teachers in the early ‘80s taught permaculture at school! Today, many secondary schools have permaculture gardens. Also, health clinics have taken up the ideas as well, for growing medicines and home-based care.