Quick Read
- Kaabu, a West African kingdom, flourished from the 1500s to the 1800s.
- Griots, traditional storytellers, preserved Kaabu’s history through songs.
- Archaeologists recently began excavating Kansala, Kaabu’s capital.
- Findings validate griots’ oral histories, uncovering fortresses and trade artifacts.
- The project highlights the importance of African perspectives in historical narratives.
The Lost Kingdom of Kaabu: A Historical Overview
Kaabu, a once-thriving kingdom in West Africa, held significant power from the 1500s to the 1800s. Located in what is now Guinea-Bissau and Senegal, Kaabu emerged as a coastal province of the Mali Empire in the 13th century. Following Mali’s decline, Kaabu gained independence, becoming a wealthy and influential state, partly due to its involvement in regional trade, including the slave trade. The kingdom’s capital, Kansala, was a hub of political and cultural activity.
Kaabu’s downfall came in the late 19th century when it was attacked by neighboring forces. According to oral histories, the king of Kaabu set fire to Kansala’s gunpowder reserves, destroying the city and marking the kingdom’s end. This collapse created a power vacuum that European colonial powers exploited to expand their influence in the region.
The Role of Griots in Preserving Kaabu’s Legacy
Griots, traditional West African storytellers, have been instrumental in keeping Kaabu’s history alive. Through songs, poems, and oral narratives, they have passed down stories of the kingdom’s royalty, culture, and pivotal events. Griots are often referred to as “guardians of history,” preserving the collective memory of their communities.
Nino Galissa, a modern-day griot and descendant of Kaabu’s first griots, emphasizes the importance of their role. “We are, above all, the guardians of history, of the people and places across the ages, and of the kings,” he says. The griots’ art not only entertains but also educates, ensuring that the legacy of Kaabu remains vivid for future generations.
Archaeological Efforts to Unearth Kansala
Inspired by the oral histories of griots, archaeologists have turned their attention to Kansala, Kaabu’s capital. Sirio Canós-Donnay, an archaeologist from the University of Valencia, has led multiple excavations in the region. In early 2024, her team, which included Senegalese archaeologists, began work on unearthing Kansala in Guinea-Bissau.
The excavation revealed significant findings, including remnants of fortresses, royal quarters, and trade artifacts. Evidence of a massive detonation, consistent with griot accounts of Kansala’s destruction, was also uncovered. “Now, it is clear through science that what we have been saying about Kansala is true,” says Galissa.
The site spans nearly 150 acres, equivalent to 114 football fields, making it an extensive area of historical interest. Despite the progress, Canós-Donnay acknowledges that the team has only scratched the surface. Plans are already in place for further excavations to uncover more about Kaabu’s past.
Collaboration Between Griots and Archaeologists
A unique aspect of this project is the collaboration between archaeologists and griots. Canós-Donnay involved griots like Galissa throughout the excavation process, recognizing their invaluable contributions as custodians of oral history. This partnership not only validated the griots’ narratives but also enriched the archaeological findings.
At the conclusion of the excavation, the archaeologists provided Galissa with a copy of their final report. They invited him to transform their findings into a song, bridging the gap between scientific research and traditional storytelling. “It was absolutely amazing to see our work being turned into an epic itself,” says Canós-Donnay. Galissa’s song highlights the pride and historical significance of Kaabu, emphasizing the role of griots as historians.
The Cultural and Historical Significance of Kaabu
The rediscovery of Kaabu through archaeology and oral history underscores the importance of preserving African perspectives in historical narratives. Antonio Queba Banjai, a descendant of Kaabu’s last emperors, stresses the value of this project. “The importance of this project is [for] Africans to be able to tell their own story and their own perspective,” he says.
For many, the findings have brought a new sense of pride and connection to their heritage. “The songs of the griots that I’ve heard my whole life are more vivid to me now — like movies,” says Banjai. “I’m very proud of my ancestors.”
Future Prospects for Kaabu’s Legacy
The ongoing archaeological efforts in Kansala are just the beginning. The findings have already validated much of what griots have sung about for generations, but there is still much to uncover. The collaboration between scientists and griots sets a precedent for how oral history and archaeology can complement each other to provide a fuller picture of the past.
As the project continues, it offers an opportunity to celebrate and preserve the rich history of Kaabu. Through the combined efforts of griots, archaeologists, and local communities, the legacy of this lost kingdom will continue to inspire and educate future generations.