P’tites Annonces · République centrafricaineCentral African Republic

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Discover Central African Republic

The Central African Republic brings together forests, savannahs and river valleys in the continent's interior. Communities have diverse languages and histories, some connected with forests and others with agricultural or urban areas. Aka polyphonic singing layers voices and rhythmic patterns through a collective practice transmitted in particular social contexts. This expression does not represent every culture in the country. Stories, instruments and craft knowledge reveal other ways of passing on memory and skills. Forest environments are also spaces of knowledge concerning plants, seasons and resources, beyond images of untamed nature. Cassava enters several food preparations, often accompanied by sauces and vegetables. River fish, pulses and agricultural products complete meals according to region. Collective preparation and welcome around dishes contribute to relationships between households. An attentive presentation therefore connects food, music and environment with the inhabitants who give these practices meaning. Recognising differences between communities helps explain why familiar cultural or natural landmarks cannot alone describe everyday experience throughout the country.