Traditional Bwiti Fang Initiation

The Bwiti Fang Initiation retreat is a genuine initiation traditionally reserved for Gabonese individuals, now uniquely accessible to visitors a few times a year within the sacred forest village. This profound journey is designed for those with a deep calling to Bwiti and Iboga, ready to embark on an intensive, transformative path. It is a life-changing experience, challenging yet deeply rewarding, serving as a true rite of passage.

Ceremony Overview

Authentic Initiation Experience: This retreat is far from a tourist attraction. Participants undergo initiation alongside and in the same manner as Gabonese people, adhering strictly to traditional rites and practices.

Comprehensive Preparation: The week leading up to the Iboga ceremony involves participating in shamanic plant diets and treatments. These practices are meticulously designed to prepare your body, mind, and spirit for the profound experience of Iboga.

Commitment to Preservation: Operating on a non-profit basis, all profits from the retreat are dedicated to the protection and preservation of Bwiti culture and the Iboga plant, ensuring their continuity for future generations.

All-Inclusive Experience: The retreat is all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, plant diets, treatments, and the initiation ceremony. This ensures a supportive, worry-free environment allowing participants to fully immerse in this transformative journey.

Day by Day Schedule

  • Arrival at the airport and pickup by our team.
  • Accommodation at a beach hotel in Libreville, included in the retreat price.
  • Evening dinner and a chance to get to know each other.
  • Early morning departure to the village located in the forest.
  • Arrival at the village in the evening, followed by setting up and introductions to everyone, including the nima (healer).
  • Village tour and initial initiation rites and consultations.
  • Check-in to our traditional medicine clinic, officially starting the initiation process.
  • Participation in various rites and plant treatments tailored to individual needs.
  • Spiritual showers are provided throughout the day and night to cleanse and prepare.
  • Continued plant treatments focusing on detoxification.
  • Dream interpretation and visionary work to guide the initiation process.
  • Further plant treatments and spiritual showers throughout the day and night to deepen the spiritual connection.
  • Morning preparation for the first Iboga ceremony.
  • Afternoon commencement of the first Iboga ceremony with a significant dose of root bark for a profound journey.
  • A celebratory gathering with villagers and musicians continues all night to support the ceremony.
  • Daytime rest and recovery.
  • Evening second ceremony featuring song, dance, rites, and joy, continuing until morning.
  • Official closing of the ceremony.
  • Time to enjoy a swim in the river, say goodbyes, and then depart for Libreville.
  • Beach hotel stay for the evening with a farewell dinner.
  • Airport drop-off for departing guests.
  • Optional exploration of Libreville, including visits to the traditional medicine and craft market, African dressmakers, or beach relaxation.

Bwiti Fang Branch

Our Spiritual Path: Fang Njembe Ekongui Mbiri

Welcome to a realm where tradition meets inclusivity, where the wisdom of the ancients is channeled through the nurturing spirit of femininity. At the heart of our practice lies the branch of Bwiti known as Fang Njembe Ekongui Mbiri, a path that stands out for its profound respect for the feminine principle in spiritual leadership and healing.

Female Leadership

Our lineage is illuminated by the guiding light of female Nimas and healers, making us a female-led branch. This lineage has cultivated a unique approach to our ceremonies, infusing them with a softer, nurturing touch that resonates with both men and women alike. It is through this gentle strength that our ceremonies unfold, offering a space where healing and spiritual exploration are deeply intertwined.

The Sacred Ngombi: Our Spiritual Guide

At the core of our rituals is the Ngombi, the sacred Bwiti Fang harp, revered not just as an instrument, but as a living entity with a soul. This soulful companion guides us through our ceremonies, its melodies weaving a protective aura that connects us to the divine. The Ngombi embodies our spiritual journey, its strings resonating with the depths of our being, offering protection and enlightenment.

Christian Syncretism

Our branch uniquely integrates Christian symbols and elements into our rites, reflecting a harmonious blend of spiritual paths. This synthesis underscores our belief in the universal truths that underpin all religious and spiritual ideologies. Our ceremonies are open doors to seekers of all backgrounds, inviting everyone to explore the vastness of their spiritual landscape with us.

The Iboga Journey

One of the most distinctive aspects of our practice is the ceremonial consumption of Iboga. Unlike other branches, we embrace the potency of this sacred plant by consuming a large amount in a single instance, followed by iboga juice, to facilitate a profound and immersive experience. This method contrasts with the incremental approach of others, such as the Mitsogho, marking our commitment to those who are ready to embark on a deep and transformative spiritual journey.

A Universal Quest for Truth

We believe in the interconnectedness of all spiritual paths and welcome individuals from all religious and spiritual backgrounds. Our philosophy is built on the foundation that truth transcends boundaries, and we are dedicated to exploring this universal truth together. In our ceremonies, seekers find a space where the essence of all beliefs is honored and celebrated, fostering a community of inclusivity and spiritual growth.

Group Size

Limited Group Size for Deeper Connection


Each of our initiation retreats is an intimate gathering, welcoming only four external visitors at a time. This ensures a personalized and immersive experience, allowing for dedicated guidance and a deeper connection with our traditions.

Sharing with the Local Community


Our traditional medicine clinic hosts up to 12 individuals, exclusively available to the Gabonese, preserving our cultural heritage. During your stay, you’ll share spaces with locals, undergoing the same authentic initiation rites. This experience isn’t adapted for Western audiences; it’s the genuine practice shared by our community.

An Authentic Experience


Here, you’ll join a shared path of spiritual exploration, embracing our practices as they have been for generations. This is your invitation to a journey of authenticity, side by side with the heart of our community.

Who is This Retreat For?

  • Those who feel a deep, authentic calling to explore the roots of Bwiti and the sacred use of Iboga.
  • Individuals already navigating the journey of spiritual and medicinal exploration.
  • People who are both mentally and physically robust, ready to embrace and endure challenging conditions.
  • Anyone longing to forge a deeper bond with their ancestral heritage and roots.
  • Souls who feel a profound, inexplicable pull towards the spirit and lands of Africa.
  • Those on an earnest quest for spiritual depth, seeking to explore beyond the surface.
  • Individuals who sense a distinct purpose within but require guidance to align with it fully.
  • People who approach life with openness and curiosity, not deterred by the unfamiliar or challenging.
  • Those dedicated to an unrelenting pursuit of the world's truths, wherever that journey may lead.
  • Individuals who sense a disconnect from their current path and are ready for transformative change in alignment with their true purpose.
  • People who have already done a lot of spiritual work and are ready to dive deeper
  • People who want to connect to the spirit world

Preparation and What to Bring

Mentally and Physically Preparing for the Journey

Intention Setting: Begin your journey even before your arrival by contemplating your intentions. Reflect deeply on the changes you seek and the growth you aspire to achieve. Your intentions will be the guiding light of your experience, illuminating your path towards transformation.

Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments: Embrace a period of purification at least one week prior to the retreat. Abstain from alcohol, recreational drugs, and opt for a diet rich in wholesome foods. This preparation is essential for cleansing both your body and spirit, preparing you to fully engage with the initiation process.

Acknowledging and Releasing Toxic Habits: As your ceremony approaches, you might notice an amplification of your toxic habits. This visibility is a crucial step towards healing, allowing you to confront and release these patterns during your retreat.

Communication with Your Ngangas: Keeping an open line of communication with the facilitators, or Ngangas, is key. Your honesty helps us tailor the retreat to your spiritual needs, ensuring a deeply personal and transformative experience.

 

Essential Items for Your Retreat

  • Clothing for Libreville: We provide all necessary attire for the initiation itself, but please bring personal clothes for your stay in Libreville. Comfort and practicality should guide your choices.
  • Swimwear: Pack swimwear for participating in the spiritual purification showers, an integral part of your energetic preparation.
  • Offering to the Ancestors: A small, meaningful item to offer the ancestors will bridge your connection to the spiritual lineage, honoring the sacred traditions that facilitate this work.
  • Insect Repellent: To ensure your comfort and well-being, bring effective insect repellent.
  • Yellow Fever Vaccine Card: Your health and safety are paramount. Please remember to bring your Yellow Fever vaccine card as part of your travel documents.
  • Cash for Visa and Expenses: Ensure you have enough cash to cover your visa on arrival and any personal expenses during your stay.
  • Camera: For those who wish to capture moments of their journey, bring a camera. However, be mindful of when and where photography is appropriate.
  • Eco-Friendly Toiletries: We encourage the use of biodegradable and eco-friendly toiletries to minimize our impact on the environment.

Facilitators

Maman Ogningue

Nima
Maman Ogningue, affectionately known as Mamou, is a revered figure within Bwiti Roots and a vital presence in the Ntann community. Residing in Ntann, she has dedicated her life to the sacred practice of the Bwiti tradition. Since 2007, she has held the esteemed title of Nima, a recognition bestowed upon her by the Gabonese Ministry of Health. As the guardian of the temple and sacred objects, Mamou ensures the preservation and sanctity of the Bwiti heritage. Her role extends beyond that of a caretaker; she is also a skilled healer and serves as the head of the clinic, offering both physical and spiritual support to those seeking healing. Drawing from her deep wisdom and extensive knowledge, Mamou serves as a trusted guide in the initiation journeys of individuals following the Bwiti Fang tradition. Mamou’s impact reaches far and wide, having initiated over a hundred individuals in the Medouneu region to date. Her profound dedication to Bwiti Roots and the local community has been instrumental in preserving and passing down the sacred teachings and rituals of Bwiti. With her expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the Bwiti tradition, Mamou continues to inspire and guide both the members of Bwiti Roots and those who seek the transformative power of Bwiti.

Roger

Nganga
Roger is our cherished facilitator and a profound pillar within our community. His journey with Bwiti began in 1974 when he became initiated with his late wife and Audrey's mother Seraphine. Since his initial visit in the 1970s, Roger has been a steadfast supporter of our village. Over the years, Roger has worked closely with our Nima, dedicating himself to the initiation of newcomers into our spiritual family. His role extends far beyond that of a facilitator; he is a spiritual father in every sense, guiding individuals through initiations that connect them deeply with Bwiti's rich heritage. Roger's presence is characterized by his kind and open heart—a trait that endears him to everyone he meets. To those who have had the privilege of joining our ceremonies, he becomes more than a facilitator; he becomes a father figure, offering guidance, support, and unconditional love. Roger's dedication to Bwiti and our community makes him a beloved figure, and his impact on the lives of many is immeasurable.

How to Apply/Register

  • Email Inquiry: Start by emailing us at info@bwitiroots.org. Please mention the specific ceremony you are interested in joining, whether it's the 3-day ceremony, the Bwiti initiation in Gabon, or the Mexican retreat.
  • Provide Details: In your email, kindly include a brief description of why you feel called to this particular ceremony and any previous experiences with plant medicine if applicable.
  • Wait for Response: Our team will respond to your inquiry within 48 hours with more information about the ceremony, including dates, availability, and the next steps in the process.
  • Schedule a Consultation Call: After reviewing your pre-registration form, we'll schedule a Zoom consultation call. This call is an essential part of the vetting process to ensure alignment and readiness for the experience.
  • Confirmation of Interest: Following the consultation call, if both parties feel aligned and ready to proceed, you'll receive a confirmation email outlining the next steps to officially join the ceremony.
  • Deposit Payment: To secure your spot in the ceremony, you'll be required to pay a deposit. The email will include details on how to make this payment.
  • Final Payment and Logistics: You'll be advised on when the final payment is due (if applicable) and provided with logistical details about the ceremony location, transportation options, and accommodation arrangements if needed.
  • Welcome to the Family: Congratulations! You're now officially part of the upcoming ceremony. We look forward to embarking on this transformative journey with you

Initiation Retreat FAQ

Yes, all visitors to Gabon must obtain a visa. You have two main options:

Certain medications, especially psychiatric drugs, can interfere with Iboga. Please disclose all medications during the consultation call so we can provide guidance.

Respect and openness to local traditions are paramount. Dress modestly, be open to participating in ceremonies, and follow the guidance of your facilitators. Specific customs and guidelines will be shared before your initiation begins.

This experience may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals who have a history of mental health issues, certain medical conditions, or who are taking certain medications may not be good candidates for iboga. It is important to disclose any relevant medical information to the Bwiti practitioners before participating in a retreat.

Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions. While we strive to accommodate various needs, the nature of the retreat and local availability may limit our capacity to cater to all dietary preferences.

The primary language of communication during the retreat is French, but English translation will be provided for non-French speakers to ensure everyone can fully engage with and understand the retreat’s activities.

Inform us about any medications you are taking as soon as possible. Some medications may interfere with the retreat’s processes, and adjustments may need to be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Authentic Bwiti initiation can only occur in Gabon, within the context of our traditions and land. Initiations conducted elsewhere lack the authenticity and depth of a true Bwiti experience.

Becoming a Bwiti Nganga is a profound commitment that requires being chosen by lineage or, in rare cases, by ancestral spirits and elders. It involves extensive training and approval by the council of elders. An initiation is the first step on a long journey toward becoming a Nganga.

Post-retreat support is crucial for integrating your experience. We offer guidance and resources to help you incorporate the insights and transformations into your daily life.

Get involved

For information on how to get involved or on how to sign up to our retreats , please contact:

Bwiti Roots

+44 7445 499 504

Email: info@bwitiroots.org

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