By Ibrahim S. Bangura
In Sierra Leone’s provinces, far from the bustling cities and urban music trends, the echoes of traditional rhythms persist, safeguarding the soul of the nation’s cultural heritage. From the resonant drums of Pujehun to the evocative flute melodies of Kabala, cultural musicians continue to preserve their art despite being underappreciated, underpaid, and largely overlooked by mainstream media.
These artists, often showcased only during cultural festivals or state ceremonies, remain vital storytellers. Their music, deeply rooted in history, conveys themes of ancestral pride, moral values, and community identity. However, many face challenges in earning a livelihood or gaining national recognition.
Struggles of Traditional Musicians
At the Bo Central Market, 64-year-old Alhaji Musa, a kora player, reflects on his lifelong dedication to traditional music. “I’ve been playing since I was a boy,” he shares proudly. “I learned this from my father, who learned it from his father. But now, the young people don’t want to learn. They chase quick fame with beats they don’t understand.”
Cultural groups like Ngoyama Sound in Kenema and Senehun Drummers in Tonkolili are gradually fading as younger generations gravitate toward popular genres like Afrobeats and hip-hop. This decline is compounded by the lack of institutional support. A 2022 report by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs revealed that less than 10% of the government’s annual cultural budget is allocated to provincial musicians. Most grants and opportunities remain concentrated in urban centers, leaving traditional artists to fend for themselves.
“We get invited only when there’s Independence Day or an international delegation visiting,” laments Hawa Kamara, a female balangi player from Makeni. “Other times, we play at naming ceremonies or funerals. But it’s not enough to feed our families.”
Efforts to Revive Traditional Music
Despite these challenges, passion drives many cultural musicians to keep their heritage alive. The Wulenten Cultural Group in Kambia continues to perform at community gatherings every weekend. Lead drummer Saidu Bangura, 28, believes there is hope for revitalization. “If schools included traditional music in their curriculum, and if the media gave us space, we would not be dying out,” he says.
Some positive developments signal a potential revival. The Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Freetown has launched outreach programs, introducing hybrid workshops that blend traditional and modern music techniques. Local radio stations, such as Radio Wanjei in Pujehun, now dedicate weekly segments to traditional music, providing exposure to lesser-known artists.
Digital platforms have also opened new opportunities. In Bombali, young, tech-savvy artists recently produced a cultural music video that incorporates traditional dance, drumming, and storytelling. The video, shared on Facebook, received thousands of views and sparked discussions about the importance of cultural preservation.
A Call for Systematic Support
However, sustainability remains a challenge. Cultural activist and ethnomusicologist Dr. Fatmata Sesay identifies the lack of structured support as a major obstacle. “There’s no national archive for traditional music. There are no structured grants for these artists. And worst, we’re not documenting our musical diversity,” she explains.
Dr. Sesay warns that Sierra Leone risks losing more than just music—it risks severing a connection to its past, a tool for education, and a bridge for intergenerational dialogue. She stresses that traditional musicians need investment, platforms, and integration into the national cultural framework.
Preserving the Pulse of the Provinces
As Sierra Leone modernizes, it is vital that this progress does not come at the expense of cultural erasure. Traditional musicians must not be celebrated only during cultural events and forgotten thereafter. Their contributions are critical to preserving the country’s identity, and their songs deserve to be heard far beyond the provinces.