The problem of poverty in the Rastafarian community is something that few dare to even consider confronting, for fear of being labelled. Yet, as you pointed out, we need money to transact our business, whether it's building a school, buying food etc.

Part of the problem, from my experience as a Zimbabwean Rasta, is anti-Rastafarian sentiment prevalent in society. When they see that you have dreadlocks, people get jumpy, appointments are rescheduled, or they have received last minute orders from the boss to cancel an order. And if you are looking for a job, no one's going to look at your CV.

The other part of the problem, in my view, is us. I tried doing a documentary on the issue, and I have footage of Rastas who are under the impression that the world owes them a living. All they do is complain, but they are reluctant to actually do any work. There is a lot of poverty in the community, yes ,but there never seems to be a shortage of money for the latest reggae CDs ( sung by Rastafarians, but the real money is made by the likes of Turner ( AOL magnate))

A solution is to instil a sense of enterprise as an integral par of the Rastafarian psyche. This is where the elders come in. Leonard Howell, I read, was quite the businessman. Youths need to be enouraged to stay in school, learn a skill. Eventually, the system gives way. Many Rastafarians are beginning to run big businesses, and wear nice suits. I remember one function I attended they simply had to put on a vegan buffet for the simple fact that my presence was required. The only other Rastafarian there was the entertainer, and he said I inspired him just being there among these people, representing us. That made me realise that my efforts were not just for me.

There are many Rastafarians who, having made a bit of money, try to pump it back in to the community. But often, their efforts are soon discouraged by the behaviour of their people, especially those persuaded that the world owes them a living.

As media people, we must also highlight the success stories of Rastafarians who have made it and are making a meaningful contribution to the developement of the Rastafarian community.