Fêtes-des-Masques-Bamanan

⁣Kirango is an old village on the banks of the Niger river, 35 km from Ségou. The village is inhabited by Bamana (farmers) and Bozo/Somono (fishermen). Both ethnic groups celebrate their masquerades, each in their own way.


The masquerade of the Bamana ('sogo bò' - the animal comes out) is organized by the 'ton' (youth association) every jear, in June. It comprises ‘sogow’ (animals): masks and large puppets that represent spirits, animals (domestic, wild, or mythical), and human personages.


They are accompanied by drumming, singing and dancing.


Video & text © Elisabeth den Otter