Last year, the remote village
of Samunge, Tanzania saw thousands flocking to
receive the herbal brew purported to cure any ailment from diabetes to cancer
to HIV/AIDS. The “cup of Babu” is the
supposed divinely-inspired concoction of retired Lutheran pastor, Ambilikile
Masapila. At the height of his popularity,
the tiny village was dangerously overwhelmed by the influx of pilgrims
seeking his faith-cure, reportedly attracting thousands each day creating a threat of food shortage in the area and a public sanitation crisis. Over 116 people died while seeking or after
receiving the herbal formula. Nevertheless, ELCT Bishop, Thomas Laizer of the
North Central Diocese, was a most enthusiastic supporter of Babu’s cup of
miracles.
In a public statement regarding the controversial panacea (facing criticism from skeptics in both the medical and religious community), Bishop
Laizer sternly warned critics of the cure to keep quiet and not to dare "criticize a servant of God." Bishop Laizer stated the Church was
raising funds for the construction of a large prayer house at Samunge village
that would accommodate hundreds of people. The cleric had
already collected over Sh.50 million from the Sh500 he charged to everybody
served with his herbal concoctions.
“Part of the proceeds will be used for construction of the prayer house,” Bishop Laizer said, explaining that the church has opened an account for donations expected for the project. Business was booming in Samunge as people began selling food and alcohol to the captive audience of pilgrims, who were also even charged to use the latrine.
“Part of the proceeds will be used for construction of the prayer house,” Bishop Laizer said, explaining that the church has opened an account for donations expected for the project. Business was booming in Samunge as people began selling food and alcohol to the captive audience of pilgrims, who were also even charged to use the latrine.
However, in late 2011 the “Cup of Babu” fad was losing its
appeal and traffic swamping Samunge diminished dramatically. Perhaps it was bad PR for a “miracle cure”
when the healer’s own son tragically succumbed to malaria last year. The 76-year old cleric is now planning a
comeback and expects to attract at least twice as many visitors as he did
during the peak of the cure’s fame. No doubt Bishop Laizer will want the golden goose to continue laying eggs.
One journalist reports the rather mundane experience of
receiving the magic cup from the miracle-man:
