By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Kabala, Sierra Leone – February 4, 2026: In the rolling hills of Kabala, traditional drummers continue to safeguard a centuries-old cultural heritage despite mounting economic struggles. Beneath the shade of village trees, the rhythmic beats of hand-carved drums echo through the community, carrying stories of history, ritual, and identity.
Mohamed Kamara, 56, one of the eldest drummers from Yagala Village, explained that drumming in Kabala has always been more than entertainment. “This drum is more than an instrument; it is the voice of our ancestors. Every beat tells a story, and every rhythm carries our history,” he said. Kamara noted that apprentices learn through years of close observation, absorbing techniques orally passed down within families.
Economic Struggles Threaten Tradition
Despite its cultural significance, Kabala’s drumming tradition faces economic uncertainty. Few formal opportunities exist for paid performances, leaving drummers dependent on irregular contributions from weddings, funerals, and community events. Kamara warned that without stronger support, younger generations may abandon the practice in search of urban employment, risking the loss of cultural knowledge.
Alusine Conteh, a drummer with over 20 years of experience, expressed concern about declining youth interest. “It pains me to see fewer young people taking drumming seriously. If we fail to pass on these skills, our culture may fade. Yet even amid hardship, our passion remains strong,” he said.
Cultural Showcases and New Initiatives
Recently, a local youth organization hosted a cultural showcase in Kabala’s town centre, offering drummers a rare opportunity to perform before a wider audience. Visitors from neighbouring districts attended, reaffirming the respect for Kabala’s drumming heritage. “That performance showed that although we are often neglected, our art is still respected,” Conteh added.
Some non-governmental organizations and cultural preservation groups have introduced small grants, workshops, and performance opportunities to sustain traditional arts in northern Sierra Leone. However, funding remains limited, and awareness of Kabala’s drumming heritage outside the region is still low.
Adapting to Modern Realities
To reach broader audiences, some drummers are collaborating with contemporary music producers, blending traditional rhythms with modern sounds. Others are turning to social media to share recordings of their performances, hoping to attract cultural enthusiasts and sponsors. “Technology can be a bridge. It allows us to show the world what Kabala drumming is all about,” Kamara said.
A Living Archive of Culture
Despite challenges, Kabala’s drummers remain committed to their craft. Their music serves as a living archive of resilience, community, and identity. “We do not play for money alone, but for the spirit of our people. As long as we have breath, we will play, and the voices of our ancestors will never be silenced,” Kamara affirmed.
For Kabala’s drummers, every beat is an act of cultural preservation. Yet sustaining this tradition requires more than individual dedication—it calls for broader recognition and support from local authorities, cultural institutions, and the public to ensure Sierra Leone’s rich intangible heritage endures.