Festival Kreol parade in Seychelles. Joe Laurence, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Seychelles, an archipelago of several Islands, is the smallest country in East Africa and home to a multiracial people whose heritage is a mix of African, European, and Asian roots. A small country with an estimated population of 92,000, Seychelles’ economy is strengthened by its tourism potential and is one of the few African countries that boasts of a high Human Development Index.
Creole language, which is a blend of several African languages and French, is one of the National languages. Along with English and French, this blend of cultural mix over the years has brought about a Creole tradition that is expressed through art, music, dance, and poetry and celebrated at the annual Festival Kreol.
Held in October, Festival Kreol is an event that expresses the rich diversity, history, and blend of traditions of the small Island of Seychelles. Across all 155 parts of the Island, several cultural activities involving art, music, dancing, and more importantly, an experience of the famous Creole cuisine take place leading up to a colorful march through the nation’s capital.
Music and dance are the pillars of this important festival. Popular among the musical experiences are the Sega and Moutya music and dances. The origin of this can be traced back to the period of slavery where those who were captured and armed with nothing but their sorrow and memories were left with expressing their pain through dance, chants, and songs. This eventually gave birth to the Moutya as well as the Sega music and dance routines.
Even though the Moutya would be banned by the colonialists and church authorities under the guise of disturbing the peace, the dance is continuously being revived by the Seychelles authorities, giving it a modern look and appeal through its insertion as part of the festival activities.
Part of the dance routine is an opportunity to offer visitors an insight into Seychellois folklore. Adorned with different costumes of several resplendent beauty, the dancers sway their hips and move with rhythmic precision as they portray the history and tradition of the people.
Joe Laurence, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Local artists also perform traditional music that has been merging through different musical genres transforming them into Creole music providing an exciting sound during the festival. Other musical performances from the School of Music and the National College of the Arts students also provide entertainment for citizens and visitors.
Among the festivities is the rich cultural display of various artworks that line up the streets. Artisans proudly display their handcrafted displays of jewelry, sculptures, paintings, and other local arts which visitors are welcome to admire and purchase.
Part of the highlight of the festival is an opportunity for visitors to experience Kreol cuisine. Restaurants and food stalls scattered all over the Island serve up rich traditional dishes like spicy rouille, grilled fish, coconut-inspired dishes, and ladob which serves as both a dish or dessert.
Beyond the speeches and fun activities, Festival Kreol is an opportunity for bonding. As a result of the presence of several ethnic nationalities all fused into a multiracial melting pot, the festival provides an opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness of the cultures that make up the country of Seychelles. Blending these cultures through music, cuisine, art, and dance has remained a testament to their oneness in diversity.
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com
