The girls enter adulthood - 'Coming out' of the INITIATES of the BONDO SOCIETY - feel the atmoshpere скачать в хорошем качестве

The girls enter adulthood - 'Coming out' of the INITIATES of the BONDO SOCIETY - feel the atmoshpere

Bondo dance Look for the girls in white In Sierra Leone, the *Bondo society* (also known as Sande or Bundu) is a traditional women’s initiation institution found among many ethnic groups, including the Mende, Temne, and Sherbro. The *initiates* are girls who have spent a period in seclusion, often called the “bush school,” where they are taught about womanhood, hygiene, fertility, social conduct, and the responsibilities of adulthood. Under the guidance of the *sowei* (senior female leaders), they learn songs, dances, and secret knowledge that mark their transition from childhood to womanhood. At the end of this period, each girl is given a new name, symbolizing her rebirth as a full member of the society. The conclusion of initiation is marked by a *public parade or “coming-out” ceremony**, which is a joyful and highly visible community event. The initiates are dressed in **white cloth* and decorated with *hojo**, a white clay that represents purity and protection. They are led by the **ndoli jowei**, the famous dancing sowei who wears a black wooden **helmet mask* and raffia costume. This female masquerade—unique in West Africa—is accompanied by rhythmic drumming, singing, and dancing as the group moves through the town or village. The performance signals to the wider community that the girls have completed their training and now hold a new social status as women. During the parade, families celebrate the return of their daughters with **music, gifts, and feasting**. The community honors the soweis for their leadership and acknowledges the girls’ endurance and transformation. The event reinforces unity among women and affirms the authority of the Bondo society in upholding moral and social order. While some aspects of initiation remain secret to members, the public celebration serves as an open acknowledgment of womanhood. Today, practices and meanings vary by region, and discussions continue about reforming harmful elements while preserving the ceremony’s cultural significance.