Mami Wata is venerated in West, Central, and Southern Africa. It is one of many spirits under the water-spirit traditions that date back to ancient Africa. Mami Wata spirits are usually female, but are sometimes male. Mami Wata is often described as having a mermaid-like figure and is often accompanied by a snake. She has a strong connection with healing that results in people blaming her when someone comes down with an incurable illness. The illness of the person shows that Mami Wata has taken an interest in the afflicted person and only she can cure the individual. Barren mothers often call upon Mami Wata to cure their affliction.
Artistic Depiction of Mami Wata
Mami Wata has a close connection to water, and many of her followers have been possessed by the spirit while they were swimming or on a boat. If the follower does what Mami Wata wants they will become rich, but if they refuse, the person will become ill. In Nigeria, Mami Wata’s followers will wear red and white clothing since these are the colors that represent Mami’s dual personality. Red symbolizes death, destruction, maleness, and power. White, on the other hand, represents death but also beauty, creation, femaleness, water, and wealth. Mami Wata’s shrines are typically decorated in red and white to honor her. Offerings to Mami Wata are another important aspect of worship and may include gifts of delicious food and drink, alcohol, fragrant objects, and expensive goods like jewelry.
Mami Wata Shrine
