Mami Wata

To many people Mami Wata or Mami Wati or Mama Wata or Mommy Water is an ancient water spirit who is venerated in most parts of Africa such as West, Central and Southern Africa. She is also venerated in the African diaspora in the Americas. It is said that She could appear as a Maiden, Mother, Matron or Crone. Mami Wata’s name derived from pidgin English meaning “Mother of the Waters” or “Mother of the Ocean Water.” This demonstrates Her connection to both the African people and the African diaspora. 

Beloved Snake

Like many African goddesses, Mami Wati is said to be the personification of an African mermaid, exuding primordial mother status. But often She appears fully human in appearance, and often carrying a large snake which is said to be the symbol of divination, power, healing and divinity. The snake is frequently wrapping itself around Her and snuggling itself between Her breasts.

Teacher and Guide

A great amount of lore from Africa to the shore of the Americas tells tales about how Mami Wata’s spirit abducted Her followers while swimming or boating or even walking about the shores. She brings them to mystical realms, underwater or in other spirit worlds. Then She brings them back wearing dry clothing, and with a whole new outlook on the world, and a clearer understanding of the Universe. When they return, they often grow wealthier and grow a deeper and more spiritual awareness from their encounter and journey with Her. Mami Wata's presence is prevalent among Her devotees partly because She can bring good fortune in the form of money and wealth.

Read this Story of Mami Wata

Goddess of High Prize

Mami Wata is well worshipped on the coastal regions from Benin, Ghana and Togo.  While they worship many pantheons of water deities, it is Mami Wata who is most highly respected. For it is the Mami Wata priesthood that heads and officiate ceremonies, maintain Her shrines, conduct healing rituals, and initiate new Vodou Priestesses and Priests and into the services of Mami Wata and Her many spiritual aspects.

Her Symbols

Often thought of as a beautiful snake charmer, protector, and seductive indigenous African water spirit, Mami Wata is widely celebrated to honor the essential and the sacred nature of water. It is also widely believed that She often have depictions that were influences by the lore of ancient European mermaids, Hindu gods and goddesses and Christian saints later in Her history. To add further complexities to Her lore it is said that She can often be a shapeshifter appearing as a Papa Wata from time to time. Mami Wata is a symbol of fertility, healing, protection for women and children, guardianship of sea creatures and a protector of natural environment.

Mami Wata's Altar

For Her Altar We Offer Her What Is Always Close to Her Heart. 

Mami Wata - ASe'