The Niasse, along with the Kumpo and the Samay, are three traditional masked figures in the religion of the Jola people, living in the Casamance ( Senegal) and in Gambia.
They play a central role in the social life of the traditional village. Multiple times in the course of the year, e.g. during the Journées culturelles, a folk festival in the village is organized.
All three figures are masked dancers. The kumpo is completely covered with palm leaves and is considered to be a ghost. Between the niasse and the samay, which are more people-like, there are fewer differences. The type of dance is a bit different; other differences are:
Attribute | Samay | Niasse | Kumpo |
---|---|---|---|
Arm | One single arm | Two arms | Completely covered with palm leaves |
Horns | Has two horns on the head | Does not have horns | No horn |
Stick | Has one long stick in his hand | Equipped with two short sticks | One long stick on the head |