🍠 Celebrating Yam & Igbo Heritage!

Ndeewo Nwanne,

Kedụ?

Welcome to another enriching edition of Echiche Igbo!

This is March, Women’s History Month worldwide, and in celebration, we will feature the biographies of some remarkable Igbo women in all our editions this month! Join us as we honour the achievements, contributions, and legacies of inspiring Igbo women throughout history.

Today, we embrace our vibrant heritage with exciting features:

🍠 History Spotlight – The Importance of Yam in Igbo Culture: Cultivation, Preparation, and Symbolism 
🎨 Igbo Icon – Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy: An Artist Bridging Cultures 
🎶 Song of the Week – "Udemba" by Umuobiligbo 
🖍️ Fun for Kids – Today's Igbo Language Printable

Stay connected to our roots, learn something new, and enjoy this issue! Jisie ike! 💛

The Importance of Yam in Igbo Culture: Cultivation, Preparation, and Symbolism

Yam, referred to as ji in Igbo, is the cornerstone of agriculture in Igboland. Its cultivation is labour-intensive and traditionally associated with masculinity, symbolising strength and hard work. A successful yam harvest elevates a man’s social status and reflects his ability to provide for his family. As one of the first crops planted each season, yam signifies renewal and sustenance, forming the backbone of Igbo agrarian life.

Preparation

The preparation of yam is central to Igbo culinary practices and rituals. During the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji), old yams from the previous year are consumed before fresh yams are ceremonially prepared. Roasted yam served with palm oil (mmanụ nri) is a staple of this celebration. Rituals such as offering yams to deities and ancestors express gratitude for a bountiful harvest. These practices highlight the spiritual connection between the community and the land.

Symbolism

Yam embodies wealth, fertility, and masculinity in Igbo culture. It is celebrated as the "king of crops" and features prominently in folklore, festivals, and proverbs. The New Yam Festival serves as a communal event symbolising abundance, unity, and gratitude. Mythologically tied to Ala (Mother Earth), yam is believed to be a divine gift ensuring sustenance and prosperity. In literature like Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, yam represents social status and male identity.

In essence, yam is not merely a crop but a cultural emblem that encapsulates the Igbo worldview—pragmatic, religious, and appreciative—making it indispensable in their heritage.

Spotlight on Remarkable Igbo Women: Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy

Chinwe Ifeoma Chukwuogo-Roy MBE (1952–2012) was a celebrated Igbo artist whose remarkable career bridged cultural divides and illuminated powerful social themes. Born in Ondo State, Nigeria, she grew up in Ikom near the Cameroon border, later returning to her family roots in Awka, Anambra State. In 1975, she moved to the United Kingdom, honing her artistic talents through formal education at East Ham College and Hornsey College of Art. Chukwuogo-Roy gained international acclaim for her expressive and emotionally impactful works, notably her series on migration and the African slave trade.

In 2002, she achieved international recognition by painting the official Golden Jubilee portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, becoming one of the few artists ever honoured with this distinction. Her artworks are featured in prestigious collections worldwide, including those of Queen Elizabeth II and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Chukwuogo-Roy passed away on 17 December 2012, leaving behind her husband and two children who continue to honour her legacy. Beyond her artistic contributions, she was deeply committed to charity and education, especially supporting aspiring young artists. She co-founded Sudbourne Printmakers, promoting collaboration and artistic growth in Suffolk. Through her art and community engagement, Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy continues to inspire, affirming the global impact of Igbo creativity and resilience.

Today's Featured Track

Today's featured track, "Udemba" by Umuobiligbo, masterfully blends traditional Igbo highlife rhythms with profound lyrics celebrating the cultural value of ambitious pursuits and prosperity. Through its captivating melodies and cultural references to masquerades (mmọnwụ), the song reminds listeners that wealth acquisition is not merely material gain but a respected pathway that brings honour to oneself and community in Igbo tradition.

Today's Printable Activity

Enhance your Igbo language skills with today's special printable activity! Enjoy colouring and matching Igbo words to their pictures. This engaging exercise is perfect for both children and adults learning Igbo.

Thank You for Being Part of Echiche Igbo!

As we continue our journey of learning and preserving Igbo heritage, I’m excited to offer resources designed to help you master the language and culture with ease. Whether you want to perfect your pronunciation, introduce your child to Igbo, or learn powerful proverbs for daily life, there’s something for you!

🔹 Igbo Sounds Workshop – Master Igbo pronunciation confidently.
🔹 Igbo Dictionary Videos – A child-friendly tool to complement Igbo learning.
🔹 Proverbs for Daily Life – Learn and apply 38 authentic Igbo proverbs.

🛍️ Get started today → Learn Igbo Now

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to connecting with you in the next edition!

P.S. If you found this newsletter valuable, share it with a friend who loves Igbo culture. Let’s grow together!

Ya gazie,

Yvonne Chiọma Mbanefo
Editor, Echiche Igbo Newsletter

www.learnigbonow.com