Be the change you want to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Casamance: A Trip to the Heart of a Culture that Touches the Soul
When I set foot in Casamance for the first time, I did not know that this land would awaken in me so many questions, such curiosity, and such admiration. I, who grew up in a place where traditions and culture are disappearing, was fascinated by the manner by which Casamance preserves and proudly celebrates its roots. Here, each dance, each song, each musical instrument tells a story and carries a soul.
Casamançaise Dances: Poetry in Movement
Casamançaise dances are much more than choreographed movements: they are a lively expression of joy, spirituality, and unity. During my first “Coupo” celebration in Elana, I was amazed by the traditional “Bougarabou” dance. These dancers, dressed in dazzling outfits, moved with an energy and elegance that seemed to defy gravity. The rhythm of the drums resonated in my heart, and I could not stop myself from being moved by the atmosphere. I particularly remember an old sage who said to me, “Here, each dance step is a prayer, each movement is an homage to our ancestors.” These words made me realise that dancing, in Casamance, is not only a celebratory activity, but a profound connection with the history and spirituality of the region.
The Coumpo Tradition: A Unique Celebration
If I had to choose one moment emblematic of Casamançaise culture, it would be the Coumpo celebration. This tradition, organized to honor a special event like a marriage or harvest, is a spectacle of music, dance, and communion. In Elana, I was lucky to participate in a Coumpo where the entire village was assembled. The women, adorned in colorful clothing, held iron instruments that they struck to emit rhythmic sounds, all while dancing elegantly. The men, dressed in clothes decorated with tree leaves, also performed dance steps, accompanying the festive ambiance. The different “Coumpos” came out one by one, each presenting their own unique dance. Each “Coumpo” wore a specific name symbolizing a particular value or story, thus strengthening the cultural richness and collective identity of the community.
A Culture that Invites Reflection
By discovering cultural richness, I was not able to stop myself from asking questions about my own home and the traditions it has lost. Why have we let certain practices disappear? What should we do to preserve those that remain? In Casamance, culture is not a fixed heritage, but a living force transmitted through pride and love. A man from the village told me, “If we lose our traditions, we lose our identity. We are what our ancestors passed on to us.” This sentence continues to resonate with me, serving as a call to protect and celebrate what defines us.
