The Cultural Space of the Yaaral and Degal

　　Proclamation: 2005

Member State(s): Mali

Region: Africa

Associated themes: Cultural spaces; Rituals and festive events

The cultural space of the yaaral and the degal corresponds to the huge pastoral lands of the Peul of the inner Niger Delta. The yaaral and the degal designate the festivals which mark the crossing of the river, at Diafarabe and Dialloube respectively, by herds of cattle which graze throughout the year between the two different but complementary ecological spaces: the arid land of the Sahel and the flood plains of the inner Niger river. The festivities always take place on a Saturday, an auspicious day in popular Peul belief, determined according to the state of the pasture and the drop in the river level.

　　These festivals give rise to extremely varied cultural expressions. Competitions for the most beautifully decorated herd are organized. Music and dances are performed by a range of groups. Herdsmen recite pastoral poems relating their adventures during the long months of pilgrimage through different lands. Young women put on their finest clothes and jewelry to acclaim the herdsmen in song. Wives meticulously decorate their houses to welcome home their husband.