Mandinka Greetings at Tabanani
Tabanani
Located closer to the Senegalese border Tabanani requires vehicular access and a journey of about 45mins through rural settings
Tabanani is a village where visitors can experience Mandinka greetings, dances,
and the Kankurang tradition.
Enjoy a guided walk, explore Gambian cooking, meet artisans,
craft a palm leaf fan
and dance with the Kanyaleng women, known for their spiritual and ceremonial performances.
Discover the role of the Ifangbodi
The term Kankurang is the combination of the Mandinka words 'Kango' and 'Kurango' which translate as 'voice' and 'reinforce'.
It is the Faraa Kankurang you will sight in Tabanani also known as the Ifangbodi and Flying Kankurang. You will learn about its role and dress of jaffo or bark and the traditions associated with it.
Tne Importance of the Kanyaleng
The Kanyaleng are traditionally women who have experienced challenges such
as infertility, multiple miscarriages, or stillbirths.
They have become a unique and powerful social group
with important cultural and community functions.
🌿 Fertility – Through sacred songs and symbolic rituals,
they offer blessings to women facing challenges in conception and childbirth.
🌀 Healing – Their performances bring joy and emotional relief,
using laughter and music as powerful tools for well-being.
🕊️ Peace-building – As mediators, they use wisdom and humour to resolve conflicts,
strengthen social bonds, and promote unity.
Take the opportunity to dance with them.
Making Domada: A Land-to-Table Experience
Discover the journey of Domada, a beloved traditional Mandinka dish, starting from the land itself. Dig up the essential ingredient—groundnuts (peanuts)—( not a nut)
and take part in harvesting what you need.
Experience the hands-on process of shelling, roasting, and tossing the nuts to remove the skin before grinding them into a fine, rich paste.
Add the available vegetables and spices to the mix and prepare the rice.
Every step is labour-intensive but rewarding,
ensuring the freshest flavours for an authentic Domada experience!
Know that the cooks have all received training in Food and Hygiene
Create the Traditional Highly Functional 'Taafia' Fan
You will welcome these had fans in many situations !
The Sanyang family have this family traditional business in the village making them from the local bamboo.
Learn to make your own and purchase more for lightweight practical gifts.