The Ministry of Culture, Craft and Tourism has recently issued a strong statement following scenes of violence during the traditional exit of the Kankourang, a Mandingo initiation rite that takes place in Nguéro et Kolda. The Ministry strongly condemns these acts, which it describes as “inexplicable and deplorable behaviour” which profanes this transnational cultural heritage. Inscribed on the list of intangible heritage of UNESCO in 2005 thanks to Senegal and Gambia, the Kankourang is a vital element of cultural heritage. Local authorities have also expressed their concern, stressing that such incidents are increasingly moving away from the traditional function of the rite and could even lead to bans. The communiqué recalls that the Kankourang, instead of promoting violence, is supposed to play a crucial role in the education, training and protection of young people, acting as a guide to adulthood while preserving social and cultural values. The violence observed is considered as a “dark stain on the rayonnement of Senegalese culture” and a threat to the credibility of Kankourang itself. The Minister calls upon the communities concerned and the guardians of this heritage to commit themselves individually and collectively to the perennity of this cultural heritage. It stresses the need to preserve and promote the values of cohesion, communion and the transmission of know-how and knowledge to future generations. In conclusion, the Ministry of Culture, Crafts and Tourism undertakes to take all appropriate measures, in collaboration with the competent authorities, to protect this intangible heritage in compliance with the laws and regulations in force.
Kankourang: Appeal to the preservation and condemnation of violence
