In a powerful celebration of identity and tradition that took place at Ekie in Yaounde, members of these two communities turned culture into a language of peace and reconciliation.
In a powerful celebration of identity and tradition at Ekie May 17, members of these two communities shifted their attention from football which brought them together to a captivating spectacle. Their rich cultural exhibition and a display of heritage through traditional dances, symbolic masquerades, cultural chants and indigenous artifacts.
Dressed in colorful traditional regalia, cultural groups moved rhythmically to the sounds of drums and traditional instruments. These were spiced with beautiful dance steps and created an atmosphere of pride, belonging and a shared desire for peaceful coexistence.
The traditional artifacts, symbolic decorations and indigenous expressions proudly carried by the people enriched the sport and cultural event. It also transformed the gathering into a living exhibition of a cultural heritage.
Elders of both communities had prior to the grand display emphasized the importance of preserving traditions while using culture as a bridge to strengthen understanding and togetherness.
Both communities took a firm commitment to always come together as a people and enjoy their culture, insisting on the need to involve their youth who for the most parts are growing out of their villages in such activities so as to enable them learn.
Being origins of the North west region still recovering from a crisis, this very special event was a strong demonstration that culture can serve as an instrument for peace.
Irene Aweneg
