Afghanistan meets Africa
For
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Disadvantaged people
Time period
2016
The project
Some twenty young Afghans aged between 18 and 35, who arrived in Luxembourg as asylum seekers, are living in the Rippig hostel while they wait for their future to become clearer. All that remains of their young lives are crumbs. The djembe workshops organised by Robert Bodja have helped them to combat this unpleasant feeling of being "out of step". African percussionist Robert Bodja has succeeded in finding a new rhythm, expressing feelings without words, and putting yesterday's torments behind.
"It's really good to play together, " says Basiir, 22. "We've had so much stress in our lives… Here, we've been able to forget everything for a few hours". His friend Hussein agrees: "This music helps us to fight depression and boredom. The project has also enabled us to get in touch with our neighbours in the village. It's really nice".
The concert
The concert went so well because the participants put a lot of work and concentration into it. "At the beginning, there was a certain amount of competition and dissonance, " explains Lucie, one of the volunteers behind the project. "But now the group is very close-knit, everyone knows what they have to play and respects the others".
The programme has also been carefully chosen. In a duet with a refugee, Robert Bodja celebrates "Mother Earth" in Africa and Afghanistan in a very nostalgic and solemn song. The fingers first make circles on the drums, then launch out with passion. Robert always sings along to the drums, inviting the audience to join in too. He is supported by Blaise Fitsi, a member of the Black Djembé percussion ensemble. An Afghan dance traditionally performed on public holidays and family celebrations is also on the programme.
During the final jam session, the audience had a hard time keeping still: to the rhythm of the drums, they all chorused "One one go – ça va décoller". Unfortunately, it's already over. But the reactions were unanimous: the group had to perform again, in front of an even bigger audience.
For Robert Bodja, originally from Togo, this project is also a journey into his past: 25 years ago, he himself arrived in Luxembourg as a refugee and found his place in society through music.
