THE Zion Gate Family will be holding its inaugural “Reggae Roots
Festival,” on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Buxton Community Centre Ground on the East Coast of Demerara.

The monumental celebration will be headlined by international reggae
Sensation, ‘Anthony B’, a prominent member of the Bobo Ashanti Rastafarian movement.

The organisers, in announcing the planned festival said that he will be joined by Guyanese stars, Ark Ainegelle and Fyah Fred, along with a roster
of the most acclaimed Guyanese reggae artistes and the hottest DJs.

Importantly, the festival aspires to become an annual celebration, paying homage
to reggae music and Rastafarian culture.

It was also disclosed that the 2024 event will feature an International Reggae
Concert, a landmark event designed to unite music lovers and followers of Rastafari from across Guyana and beyond.

“Furthermore, the festival will be hosted at the Buxton Community Centre Ground, a village renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Buxton offers an authentic Rastafarian and reggae experience, making it the perfect backdrop for this celebration.

“Notably, the festival will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, strategically positioned in early November to coincide with Coronation Day. Celebrated on November 2, 1930, Coronation Day marks the crowning of Ras Tafari Makonnen, Haile Selassie 1, as the Power of the Trinity, King of Kings, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah—a day revered by Rastafarians worldwide,” the organisers said.

They added that the mission of the festival is to foster a deeper appreciation for reggae music and the Rastafarian culture, highlighting their significance both locally and globally. Reggae music, with its powerful messages of love, unity, and social consciousness, has inspired generations and served as a unifying force in communities throughout Guyana.

Moreover, as Anthony B famously said: “When we say ‘burn fire’ we don’t mean take a match and light somebody, we are saying get rid of these things that are no good for humanity.”

This message of positive change and social consciousness will be at the heart of the festival.

“Anthony B will be drawing from his extensive repertoire of 21 albums, including classics like ‘Real Revolutionary’, ‘Universal Struggle’ and his latest release ‘Bread and Butter.’ His powerful performances and thought-provoking lyrics will be a highlight of the event,” the organisers said before adding that the festival is not just a music event; it’s a cultural celebration that honours the rich legacy of reggae music and the Rastafarian way of life.

It aims to promote tourism, local engagement, and a deeper understanding of Rastafarian culture.

“Thus, mark your calendars for November 9, 2024, and join us at the Buxton Community Centre Ground for a night of unforgettable music, culture, and unity,” they said.

Persons who want updates as the festival approaches, can visit the Reggae Roots Festival page on Facebook.