Dikoboda Dombe. The Aka of Cameroon.
The Aka live in the south-west region of the Central African
Republic and have developed a distinctive vocal musical tradition, which
involves a complex type of contrapuntal polyphony. Yet, unlike polyphonic systems that are written down in notation, the vocal
tradition of the Aka Pygmies allows for spontaneous expression and
improvisation. The songs perpetuate essential knowledge for the cohesion of the group and the preservation of community values. The Aka have succeeded in preserving their musical knowledge within the community by including children in rituals from an early age.
The
lifestyle of the Aka Pygmies has been drastically disrupted due to the
changes currently taking place in the Central African Republic. The scarcity of game resulting from deforestation, the rural exodus and
the folklorization of their heritage for the tourist industry are
principal factors contributing to the gradual disappearance of many of
their traditional customs, rituals and skills.* (*Unesco) Video features images of the sacred plant iboga.
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