How Sholio people of Southern Kaduna celebrate ‘Gashio’ festival

Gashio, in Moro’a or Gauta, in Hausa is called garden egg in English and a member of the aubergine family that comes in different colours, shapes and sizes. Garden egg is rich in fibre, copper and thiamine (Vitamin B1) and potassium; a necessary salt that helps in maintaining the function of the heart and regulate blood pressure. It is also said to be a good source of Vitamin B6, Folate, Magnesium and Niacin and helps in the treatment of stomach ulcers, reduce blood cholesterol and also a great anti-cancer fruit and a dietary option for diabetic patients.

To the people of Moro’a in Kaura Local Government in the southern part of Kaduna State, garden egg is cultivated in large quantities annually. The people celebrate the day of Gashio or Gauta where the young meet the aged in a ceremony that has come to symbolise the unity of their clan.

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On Monday, 5th of April, 2021, the Me-Boyei family of Abvuat clan of Sholio tribe in Moro’a Chiefdom in Kaura Local Government Area converged at the LGEA Primary School, Monchok II to celebrate the ‘Gashio Me-Boyei’ or garden egg cultural festival. Masquerades, local bands and musical entertainers were on ground to thrill guests at the festival.

Speaking at the event, the Chief of Moro’a, Malam Tagwai Sambo, who was represented by the District Head of Manchok, Ishaya Tabat, said the festival would encourage the youths to imbibe their culture and tradition and urged the people to continue to revive other positive cultures.

Also speaking, the member representing Kaura Federal constituency, Hon. Gideon Lucas Gwani, described the Gashio festival as one of the very unique festivals in southern Kaduna, which showcases the culture of the people of Moro’a and also their agro-business side. Gwani noted that the festival connects the people of Moro’a with their past and called on the people to sustain the cultural heritage.

Speaking earlier, the President of Me-Boyei who organised the festival, Ben Shemang said the celebration of the Gashio was aimed at showcasing the farming occupation of the people adding that the festival also fosters unity and peace among the Me-Boyei and other clans of Moro’a in Kaura.