What is a Bantaba in Gambia?
The name "Bantaba" is derived from the word for a large tree,
which is called Bentennie in the
Mandinka language
and is a traditional meeting place for the men of the village. The origins
of the word is from the
Mandinka for tree
which is "Bant" and "aba" means "where to meet"
and so the 2 words combined says Bant-aba. It is the modern day equivalent
of a garden gazebo, which is larger than an arbour.
Today, it is used to describe any wooden or cement construct which is
located within the confines of a family compound or other property with
a roof made of grass or corrugated iron sheets with pillars made of
wood / bamboo or concrete. The structure itself has no walls and resembles
a gazebo.
Early in Gambian history a big tree formed the basis and foundation
of the village. Due to its natural shade it became an obvious meeting
place for men to get out of the stifling sun and heat of their huts
during the day. This is where they discussed issues that were pertinent
to the village such as ceremonies or communal works. The tree is sometimes
known as a gathering tree.
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Culture
& Traditions Village
Structure
The name "Bantaba" is derived from the word for a large tree,
which is called Bentennie in the
Mandinka language
and is a traditional meeting place for the men of the village. The origins
of the word is from the
Mandinka for tree
which is "Bant" and "aba" means "where to meet"
and so the 2 words combined says Bant-aba. It is the modern day equivalent
of a garden gazebo, which is larger than an arbour.
