African Magic. Cameroon

The photographs, which are organized into three corresponding reportages, were taken during my expedition to Cameroon in the autumn of 2014. What connects them? Certainly the authenticity of the illustrated phenomena and, of course, the geographical location.

The first story tells of a healing ritual for an elderly woman. The ritual of the Fang tribe, based on the bwiti cult, shares many elements with Christian ceremonies. The healing ritual took place partly in a temple, and the ceremony at times resembled a Catholic service.

The second chapter of my Cameroonian expedition tells about the Nguon Festival held in the city of Foumban. This extraordinary three-day celebration, full of colours and sounds, refers back to the founding of the kingdom in 1394 and depicts the Sultan’s court. A Sultan lives in Foumban, who stands as the head of all the kings. During the Festival, the Sultan discusses problems with the local community, accepts gifts, and participates in a freedom parade with other kings.

The third part is a story about the Baka Pygmies who inhabit the rainforests. The village where they lived consisted of just 13 huts. I had the unique opportunity to share life with them and learn about their culture for several days.