Argungu fishing festival

Held annually in Argungu, Kebbi state, Nigeria, Argungu fishing festival is the biggest of it’s type in mother Africa. 

The festival began in 1934 to mark the end of rivalry between Sokoto caliphate and Kebbi kingdom centered in Argungu.

As a result, Argungu fishing festival is a celebration of unity, preservation of tradition and conservation of life. The festival is held in February - the month which signals the transition from farming to fishing season. 

During the festival, there are traditional entertainments, agricultural show and the fishing competition- which is the highlight of the festival held in Mata Fada River.

All festivities take a total of 4 days. Sarkin Ruwa the custodian of the Mata Fada River conduct a sacrifice to obtain permission from the  River before the festival starts.  This is to ensure all crocodiles are chased away and fishes from all tributaries are invited or else no fish is caught.

Apart from cultural essence, Mata Fada River is an economic pillar for the people of Argungu. It’s a freshwater that supplies water for irrigation and a source of food.

 In the fishing competition, the sound of gunshot signals the start and thousands of men race into the river with bare hands or traditional fishing equipment and begin their search for Giwan Ruwa - the biggest fish. While this is ongoing, traditional drums are beat to produce the Kebbewa people’s musical rhythm which is done from a canoe in the same river and the Sarkin Ruwa seats with the drummers. Women can’t fish but can be part of the drummers.

Fishermen from outside Nigeria participate in this competition. The fisherman with the Giwan Ruwa wins the competition and can take home up to $7,500 US dollars 🤐. 

# picture credits - Google, artsandculture web page.