The Inkas Cameroon is a non-profit cultural organization that aims to preserve and promote the traditional music and dance of the people of Cameroon. Founded in 1990, the organization has been instrumental in reviving interest in traditional Cameroonian music and dance, which had been in decline for many years.

Types of Inkas Cameroon

Different types of Inkas Cameroon operate in different regions of the country. These include:

• Inkas Yaounde: This is the largest and most prominent branch of the Inkas Cameroon. It is based in the capital city, Yaounde, and has a team of professional musicians and dancers who perform at events and festivals across the country.

• Inkas Douala: This branch of Inkas Cameroon is based in the city of Douala and focuses on promoting the traditional music and dance of the people of the Littoral region.

• Inkas Bamenda: This branch of Inkas Cameroon is based in the city of Bamenda and focuses on promoting the traditional music and dance of the people of the North West region.

• Inkas Bafoussam: This branch of Inkas Cameroon is based in the city of Bafoussam and focuses on promoting the traditional music and dance of the people of the West region.

• Inkas Maroua: This branch of Inkas Cameroon is based in the city of Maroua and focuses on promoting the traditional music and dance of the people of the Far North region.

Inkas Cameroon’s Objectives

The Inkas Cameroon has several objectives that guide its activities. These include:

• To preserve and promote traditional Cameroonian music and dance: The organization seeks to preserve the cultural heritage of Cameroon by promoting the traditional music and dance of the various ethnic groups in the country.
• To educate young people about traditional Cameroonian music and dance: The Inkas Cameroon organizes workshops and training programs for young people to teach them about the different musical instruments used in traditional Cameroonian music and the dance styles that accompany the music.
• To organize cultural events and festivals: The Inkas Cameroon organizes cultural events and festivals that showcase the traditional music and dance of Cameroon. These events attract people from all over the country and provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talent.
• To promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation: The organization has organized cultural exchange programs with other African countries, which have helped to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
• To engage in community development projects: The Inkas Cameroon is also involved in community development projects. The organization has worked with local communities to provide clean water, sanitation facilities, and education programs.

Traditional Cameroonian Music and Dance

Traditional Cameroonian music and dance are an essential part of the country’s cultural heritage. The music is characterized by the use of different musical instruments, including drums, xylophones, and flutes. The rhythms are often complex, and the music is highly expressive, with lyrics that convey messages about life, love, and community.

Cameroonian traditional dance is an integral part of the music, with each ethnic group having its unique dance styles and movements. The Bikutsi, Makossa, and Assiko are some of the most popular dance styles in Cameroon. These dances are often accompanied by traditional music and are an important part of Cameroonian cultural identity.

The Inkas Cameroon has a team of professional musicians and dancers who are passionate about preserving and promoting traditional Cameroonian music and dance. The organization has a collection of over 100 traditional musical instruments, which it uses to teach young people about the different instruments and their significance in Cameroonian culture. The Inkas Cameroon’s team of professional dancers also performs at events and festivals across the country, showcasing the diverse and rich cultural heritage of Cameroon.

Impact of Inkas Cameroon

Over the years, Inkas Cameroon has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Cameroonian music and dance. The organization has been successful in reviving interest in traditional music and dance, which had been on the decline for many years.

The organization’s efforts have also led to the development of new talents in traditional Cameroonian music and dance. Young people who were previously not interested in traditional music and dance have been inspired to take up these art forms and develop their skills.

The Inkas Cameroon has also played a crucial role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The organization has organized cultural exchange programs with other African countries, which have helped to promote cultural understanding and foster relationships between different communities.


Challenges facing Inkas Cameroon

Despite its successes, Inkas Cameroon faces several challenges. One of the greatest challenges is the lack of budget. The organization relies heavily on donations and sponsorship to carry out its activities, which are often inadequate to cover the costs of its programs and projects.

Another challenge is the lack of recognition of traditional Cameroonian music and dance. Many young people in Cameroon are more interested in Western music and dance, and traditional music and dance are often seen as outdated and irrelevant.

The organization also faces the challenge of retaining its professional musicians and dancers. Many talented artists have left the organization due to a lack of adequate remuneration and opportunities for career advancement.