Culture of Thursday, 10 November 2016

Source: crtv.cm

2016 FENAC: a structure from the Far North Region catches attention

File photo File photo

It is singular in appearance and very impressive more so as the structure is built with two basic local material; mud and oil.

The two materials mixed together construction work ranges between two or three days.

More interestingly is the structure built from almost no material but capable of standing the test of time as local technicians indicate the structure can stay standing for 10-20 years.

Used as lodging for the people of this part of the Far North Region, it is very adaptable and protects the inhabitants from the scotching heat witnessed in certain period of the year.

Other unique and attractive exhibitions put on the stand by the people of the Massa that have caught the attention of visitors during this 8th edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture organised in Yaounde are:

- Cowries used by soothsayers and diviners

- Leather chain commonly called Gri-Gri, to counter spiritual attacks

- Stripes used by the people as underpants

- War shield, caps and helmets

- War chains used on war captives

- Ancient kitchen tools

- Ancient bank notes and coins used during the 1980s and 1990s for exchange of goods and services.

These and many others not on the stands distinguish the people from this part of the country from others and highlight the fact that they are still attached to their tradition in spite the evolution.