Introduction
Considered as the commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Easter is the most important Christian celebration. In Côte d’Ivoire, this holiday has taken on a more cultural meaning than a religious meaning. Indeed, among the Baoulé people, who live in the central part of the country, Easter has been renamed “Paquinou.” For this community, Paquinou is an opportunity to bring the entire community together. Let us discover together the essence of Paquinou!
What is Paquinou?
Paquinou means in the Baoulé language “during Easter.” It is celebrated in Baoulé villages specifically during the Easter weekend. In other words, Paquinou is an integral part of the Baoulé intangible cultural heritage. Moreover, Paquinou is a moment of reunion, an opportunity for the Baoulé people to pass on their customs and traditions to the younger generation.
How is the Festival Celebrated?
Lasting three days, from Friday to Sunday, Paquinou is an essential celebration among the Baoulé people. During Paquinou, the entire Baoulé community gathers in the central region of the country. Thus, cities such as Yamoussoukro, Tiébissou, and Bouaké become major meeting points for celebrants.
The program is organized as follows:
On Friday, people travel to their villages. During this period, bus stations become extremely busy as Baoulé people flock to transport companies throughout the day to reach the central region.
On Saturday, it is a day of discussions and dispute resolution within the community, with the help of the village chief.
Finally, on Sunday, the villages are in celebration with the appearance of the Goli mask. This mask, shaped like a buffalo head, appears to entertain and energize the population.
During Paquinou, economic activity is very intense, particularly in the transport, hospitality, and food service sectors. It is also a period of increased visibility for traditional-modern Baoulé music. Artists such as Adeba Konan, Sidonie la Tigresse, and N’Guess Bon Sens, among others, become very popular during this festive period.
Conclusion
For some, Easter is a Jewish and Christian religious celebration, but it is transformed into Paquinou, a traditional festival among the Baoulé people. With the influence of social media, Paquinou has become a driver of cultural animation, bringing transformation to Baoulé localities. Paquinou is clearly an important event, as popular imagination sees it as a social institution that promotes cultural diversity.
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/bintacaroline.djinhin
