Christmas around the world: in Africa

Whether rich or poor, Christians across the African continent celebrate the Nativity with joy and enthusiasm. The celebrations focus on the religious aspect of the feast, followed by spirited processions punctuated by dancing and singing.

In Zaire:

Les voyageurs considèrent que la fête de Christmas au Zaïre devrait s’appeler « la fête de l’accueil », tant cette occasion se déroule dans le partage et la convivialité. Durant cette période de l’année, on vit, on mange, on s’occupe en groupe et la table est toujours mise pour recevoir les amis. Les catholiques se rendent à la messe de minuit dans une ambiance joyeuse et animée. Après la célébration, on chante, on danse jusqu’au petit matin.

The next day, Christmas dinner takes place at noon. Among other delicious dishes, they serve chicken with rice, chili, and seke-seke (chopped cassava leaves). Anyone who passes by is welcome.

In Kenya:

Visiting family and friends plays a major role in the holiday season for Kenyans. They celebrate Christmas by roasting goat meat, and everyone's resources are pooled to create a more generous buffet.

Less fortunate residents exchange practical items such as soap, school books, and cooking bowls, for example. The more affluent exchange candy, clothing, or handicrafts. In recent years, it's not uncommon to see turkey or roast beef served with rice and raisins on the tables of the wealthy.

In Ghana:

On se prépare des mois à l’avance pour fêter la naissance de Jesus. Tant dans les maisons que dans l’église où se déroulera la célébration. On commence à fêter Noël tous ensemble dès l’arrivée du cacao.

In general

Since Africa is a land of sunshine, the fir tree is replaced by the oil palm, which is decorated with whatever is at hand. Almost everywhere on this continent, people play football during the holidays and organize fireworks on Christmas Eve.

Throughout Africa, Christmas is celebrated with noise and music. Traditional instruments such as the tam-tam and balafons are the most common. Residents who possess palm wine come to share it with their neighbors, while others arrive with an animal to offer (a chicken, for example). This gift will be added to the Christmas feast. During the celebration, scenes inspired by the Bible or pieces reminiscent of African wildlife are sometimes performed. When the celebration ends, some will have to walk for hours through the bush (often barefoot) to return home.