Gnanadje Bozo (Bozo cultural event translated from French)

Bozo Gnanadje is a cultural practice of the Bozo people of Mali that is traditionally tied to fishing. The Bozos mastered the evolution and reproduction of different types of fish.

Generally in Africa, most of the trades were exercised by specific ethnic groups, except the crafts that were restricted to a certain class of men: griots, blacksmiths, shoemakers, and weaving. In Mali, there are a wide variety of regions and ethnic groups but with the Bozo, the connection between fishing and the interconnectedness of animals can be seen through hand-crafts, musical instruments, the dance, languages and especially adornments and clothing.

Bozos had a practical knowledge of the river, aquatic animals and fishing.

They felt that they were protected by the spirit of nature and understood aquatic life and reproduction cycles, for example what to eat and what to protect, conservation zones for fish and the materials to use for fishing.

The goal of the Gnanadjé Bozo ceremony organized during a festival on the river Niger aims to recall, promote, and safeguard the cultural heritage of Mali through messages transmitted in song, dance, and puppetry. During the festival, in events like canoe races, spectators witness historical practices of the Ségovien people (from Segou, Mali). Festival events also raise awareness about the importance of a past abundance of fish and other aquatic animals to this region.

Unfortunately many things have changed through the influence of colonization. The environment is no longer protected and fishing as a profession is not viable. With the fishing livelihood gone, the Bozos have scattered in search of other jobs and cultural events like this one are becoming increasingly rare in the villages.

Amadou Keita is a photographer living in Bamako, Mali.

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