MAMAYA

Created in Kankan in the 30’s, Mamaya is an elegant dance which shows off the beauty and elegance of the male and female dancers. This collective dance is performed within a social club, where members, both men and women, come together not only for the love of dance but also to support one another in various aspects of life, such as financially assisting in the organization of major events like weddings.

Mamaya holds significant social and cultural value within the community. It is often performed in a circle, creating an environment that emphasizes unity, mutual support, and cultural heritage. Through this dance, the community is able to gather, strengthen social bonds, and celebrate a shared legacy.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Mamaya is its ability to bring together different generations and social groups, fostering a sense of unity, solidarity, and the transmission of cultural values and traditions. This inclusive nature makes Mamaya an important event for building social cohesion and celebrating the diversity within the community.

Mamaya is very much played at the end of Ramadan and the Tabaski festival in Upper Guinea. Nowadays it can also be heard during other popular celebrations, weddings, and even political gatherings like election parties. This dance, therefore, continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining cultural continuity and offering a festive space where the community can come together in joy and solidarity.