Nomadic Tribe

The traditional Bedick society is organized by age groups. Each class has different roles and privileges that are defined by different circumstances like agricultural tasks, meals, and many others.

The Bedick’s religion is a blend between their animist roots and a more recent Christian influence.

Known as the People of the Happy Valley because of the many holidays they celebrate, this tribe’s traditions remain mostly untouched by the outside world.

The Bedick have many distinct traditions such as their intricate hairstyles and many piercings. In this tribe, both men and women shave their skulls on the sides and leave longer hair in the middle, usually combed like a crest. The older women, in addition to piercing their ears, also wear a distinctive porcupine spine as a nose piercing.

This tribe speaks Bedik, also called Banda, which is a Senegambian language of Senegal and Guinea.

The Bedick are skilful artisans. Not only do they create very detailed cartwheel masks with local leaves for different ceremonies but they also make eye-catching jewellery using various coloured beads.

The People of the Happy Valley have many rituals and traditions. These rites are similar to those of the Bassaris as they also wear a series of plant masks during certain rituals.

Manindam (April to May): the initiation ceremony for teenagers, known as "the father of spirits“.

Gamond (May and June): the celebration of fertility, puberty, rain and health.

Eyamb (June or July): the festival dedicated to unmarried girls.