"Culture is the means by which a people expresses itself, through language, traditional wisdom, politics, religion, architecture, music, tools, greetings, symbols, festivals, ethics, values and collective identity. Whether written or oral, the political, historical and spiritual heritage of a community forms its cultural record, passed from one generation to another, with each generation building upon the experience of a previous one.
Culture gives people self-identity and character. It allows them to be in harmony with their physical and spiritual environment, to form the basis for their sense of fulfillment and personal peace. It enhances their ability to guide themselves, make their own decisions, and protect their interests.
It is their reference point to the past and their antenna to the future.”
Wangari Maathai, The Challenge for Africa (2009)
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