Somalia: A Nation of Poets

Oratory is very important in Somalia. The Somalia culture is one that exalts poetry, storytelling and singing. Poetry is usually accompanied by drumming. This tradition is known as Gaaf. Once the drumming starts and the Gaaf is initiated, everyone becomes silent. The crowd listens to the person reciting the poem or singing, in order to assess and judge the worth of his/her work.

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The Masai Tribe Of Kenya

The Masai are a tribe that live in the vast open space of East Africa’s Great Rift Valley.  They are seen as a symbol of strength in Kenya, displaying the ability to live in harsh conditions. Their warriors are also renowned for the bravery and mastery of the art of spear fighting.  These warriors protect their community’s livestock and water supply from wild animals and thieves.

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Fashion Life In Senegal

Senegal has a long history of being  one of the fashion hubs of Africa. With its dazzling bou bou dresses and flowing kaftans, Senegal is really a nation that prides itself in it’s fashion culture.  During the muslim feast of Eid al-Adha fashion shows are held to mark the occasion. This is where the country’s top designers get to showcase their latest collections.

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The Kuomboka River Festival in Zambia

Zambia boast some of the most fantastic waterways in Africa. In the middle of April, people from far and wide come to the country to attend the Kuomboka Festival of the Lozi people. Every year when the Zambezi  River floods the plains, it creates a deep shallow river. The Lozi people move to higher ground during this period and the Kuomboka is seen as a ceremonial event to mark it.

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Chale Wote Art Festival

If you are in Ghana this August, then you must  attend the Chale Wote Art Festival. It is by far the largest public arts festival in West Arica. Held every year in the historic port city of Jamestown and attended by thousands of people, Chale Wote is a celebration of Ghana’s artistic renaissance. There will be two days of programming ranging from live street painting,  experimental theatre, live music , graffiti murals, fashion parades  and spoken word.

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