Seychelles’ Traditional Games: Fun and Folklore Hand in Hand

Seychelles’ traditional games are more than just playtime; they’re vibrant echoes of its history, a joyful blend of African, European, and Asian influences. Passed down through generations, these games offer a fascinating glimpse into the islands’ cultural heritage, teaching valuable life skills and strengthening community bonds. Come with us as we explore these enchanting pastimes, discovering the stories and social significance woven into each game.

Koko (Coconut Shell Game)

Imagine the rhythmic thud of coconut shells against the earth, accompanied by peals of laughter. That’s Koko, a game of strategy, skill, and a whole lot of fun. Played primarily on sandy beaches or open spaces, Koko involves flipping coconut shell halves (the “koko”) in an attempt to land them right-side up within a designated area. It sounds simple, but mastering the art of the flip and judging the wind and surface conditions takes practice. The game can be played individually or in teams, making it a social and engaging activity for all ages.

To play Koko, you’ll need several coconut shell halves, smoothed and cleaned for safety. The number of players can vary, but a group of 2-4 is ideal. The gameplay usually involves each player taking turns to flip their “koko” towards a target area. The player whose “koko” lands closest to the target, or manages to land it within, scores points. The scoring system can vary, but the most common is counting the number of successful flips within the target. The first player to reach a pre-determined score wins the game. Koko isn’t just about winning though; it’s about the camaraderie and the joy of participating in a tradition that connects Seychellois people to their past. You can often find children playing Koko on beaches like Beau Vallon (Mahé) or Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue). There’s no organised lesson or teaching fee; you just need to befriend some locals or even approach random local players who are enjoying the game and ask to play with them.

Lafet (Hide and Seek)

Lafet, the Seychellois version of hide-and-seek, is a universal game with a local twist. It’s often played at dusk and evening, adding an element of thrill and excitement. Traditional hide-and-seek rules apply, with one person designated as “it” and other players scurrying to find the perfect hiding spot. What makes Lafet uniquely Seychellois is the environment in which it’s played. Village streets, backyards filled with tropical foliage, and even the edges of the forest offer ample opportunities for creative concealment. The game nurtures creativity, alertness, and agility, and kids often play it in their neighborhood for social interactions. Lafet is so simple that it requires no expense and involves a player who is the seeker shouting, “Lafet!” to signal the start of the search. The player who’s found last becomes the seeker in the next round. Imagine blending into the shadows of a mango tree or disguising yourself among vibrant hibiscus bushes – that’s lafet.

Maryaz Dibwa (Tree Climbing)

Maryaz Dibwa, or tree climbing, is more than just child’s play in Seychelles. Traditionally, it’s a skill that was crucial for collecting coconuts and fruits. Though modern techniques are now widely used in commercial harvesting, the sport is still popular for fun, teaching children about nature, balance, and judgment. The game involves challenging each other to climb specific trees, often choosing those with particular levels of difficulty. Agility, strength, and a good head for heights are essential skills. Beyond physical prowess, it also encourages respect for nature and understanding the local flora.

While it’s free, it’s crucial that Maryaz Dibwa is done safely, with supervision and instruction, especially for younger children. Start with smaller, easily climbable trees to build skills and confidence. You can often see children practicing Maryaz Dibwa in rural areas on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, under parental or elderly’s supervision. It’s essential to learn from locals who are experienced in safely climbing traditional trees. It’s essential to emphasise the importance of respecting nature; climb responsibly and avoid damaging the trees.

Ladob (A Game of Strategy)

Ladob (sometimes spelt “Las Dob”)is a popular traditional game that involves the use of small stones. While the specifics of the rules can vary from village to village, the general concept involves tossing a stone in the air and picking up a set number of stones from the ground before catching the tossed stone. The number of stones picked up each turn increases, requiring growing dexterity and concentration. The game continues until a player fails to catch the tossed stone or pick up the correct number of stones. Ladob may seem basic, but it instills important skills like hand-eye coordination, concentration, and strategic thinking–all while having fun.

To play, you’ll need about five small, smooth stones. Players sit in a circle on the ground. One player starts by tossing one stone in the air, quickly grabbing one stone from the ground, and catching the falling stone – all with the same hand. The process continues, picking up two stones, then three, and so on. Each successful round earns a player points. Variations include different hand movements and challenges that raise the difficulty. Ladob is a great way to spend time with friends and family, encouraging friendly competition and shared laughter. The price is almost nothing; you just need to find those small stones, and locals usually play them in homes and on the beach.

Laklos (Marbles)

Laklos, the Seychellois version of marbles, is another timeless game enjoyed by generations. Using glass marbles, players compete to knock their opponents’ marbles out of a circle drawn in the sand or ground. The game requires skill, precision, and strategy. Players develop a keen eye for angles and trajectories, and also learn to anticipate their opponents’ moves. Laklos is often played on beaches, in schoolyards, and in home backyards, bringing communities together through friendly competition.

To play Laklos, you need a set of marbles (ideally different sizes). First, draw a circle in the sand or on the ground. Each player places a predetermined number of marbles inside the circle. Players then take turns shooting their marbles from outside the circle, trying to knock other marbles out. If a player successfully knocks a marble out of the circle, they get to keep it. The player with the most marbles at the end wins. Besides teaching coordination and accuracy, Laklos also fosters sportsmanship and encourages social interaction. The fun is in the precision shots and the friendly rivalries that develop during the game with the price of marbles being very affordable, and mostly played on beaches.

Kato Torti (Hide the Tortoise)

Kato Torti or hide the tortoise is a traditional game that is rooted in storytelling and imaginative play. While not literally involving a tortoise, it simulates the animal’s natural instinct to hide. Players form a circle, with one player (the “tortoise”) in the centre, hiding a small object (representing the tortoise itself) under their clothing, usually on their back simulating the shell. Other players then try to guess where the “tortoise” is concealed. The fun lies in the deception, the playful accusations, and the shared laughter as players try to outsmart each other.

To play Kato Torti, you need a small object to represent the tortoise. Players sit in a circle with the chosen “tortoise” in the middle. The “tortoise” secretly hides the object under their clothing, usually at the back. Other players then take turns to guess where the object is hidden. The “tortoise” can use gestures and clues to mislead the guessers. The player who correctly guesses the hiding place becomes the “tortoise” for the next round. Kato Torti stimulates creativity, observation and develops social and interaction skills amongst the youth. This game is also free to play and promotes storytelling and imaginative play, keeping alive traditions handed down through generations. It’s commonly played during school breaks and in community gatherings, allowing everyone to participate without any special materials.

Sesel Pou Zwaye (Seychelles, Let’s Play!)

Sesel Pou Zwaye literally translates to “Seychelles, let’s play!” This rhythmic game is often played with clapping and singing, involving a group of children standing in a circle. Players perform coordinated hand gestures, clap, and sing a traditional song. The rhythm and movements create a playful and engaging atmosphere, encouraging teamwork, coordination, and memory skills. The song’s lyrics often tell little stories, educating children about Seychellois culture and values in a fun and memorable way.

Sesel Pou Zwaye requires no props; all you need is a group of enthusiastic participants. The game’s simplicity and infectious energy make it a favorite at schools, community events, and family gatherings. The circle starts with the group harmonizing the traditional song, and players coordinate their gestures to create the rhythm. Because it’s communal, there are no particular ways to win or lose; the fun is in the coordination and shared experience.

Moral and Social Value

Beyond providing fun and entertainment, Seychelles’ traditional games play a crucial role in shaping the character and values of its people. They teach children important life skills such as teamwork, strategy, problem-solving, and sportsmanship; these games promote physical activity and discourage sedentary behaviour. More than that, they help preserve and transmit cultural heritage. Players learn about their history through stories and songs embedded in the games, fostering a sense of identity and belonging to the Seychelles community. These games are also social equalisers, bringing children from different backgrounds together in a spirit of camaraderie and shared enjoyment. As urbanization and globalization threaten to supplant traditional ways, it becomes crucial to champion these games, keeping them alive for future generations.

Promoting and Preserving Traditional Games

To promote and preserve these traditional games, several initiatives can be undertaken. Schools can integrate them into physical education and cultural studies curricula, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and play these games. Community centers can organize regular game days and demonstrations, attracting participants of all ages. Local media can play an important role by featuring traditional games, highlighting their cultural significance and promoting their continued practice. Parents and community leaders can also encourage children to play these games at home and within their neighbourhoods, passing down the knowledge and skills to future generations. By celebrating and actively engaging with these games, Seychellois people can ensure that these cultural treasures continue to thrive and enrich their society.

Where to Experience Traditional Games in Seychelles

While you can encounter children playing these games in villages throughout Seychelles, certain events and locations offer a more structured experience. Keep an eye out for cultural festivals and local fairs, where demonstrations and competitions are often held. Some resorts also incorporate traditional games into their activities programs, providing guests with a taste of Seychellois culture. Visiting local schools or community centers can also provide opportunities to witness or even participate in these games alongside local children. Additionally, many Seychellois families are happy to share their knowledge and passion for these games with visitors, offering a more personal and authentic experience. By seeking out these opportunities, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Seychelles’ traditional games and gain a deeper appreciation for its unique culture.

Tips for Playing Traditional Games

1. Ask the Locals: Don’t be afraid to approach locals and ask them about the rules and etiquette of the games. They’ll be happy to share their knowledge and help you learn.
2. Embrace the Culture: Remember that these games are more than just entertainment. They’re a way of connecting with Seychellois culture. Approach them with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
3. Be Patient: Some of the games may seem difficult at first, but don’t get discouraged. Keep practicing, and you’ll improve over time.
4. Have Fun: The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience. These games are meant to be played with friends and family, so relax and let loose.
5. Respect the Environment: When playing games outdoors, be mindful of the environment. Avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing wildlife.

Playing Seychelles’ traditional games helps you understand the Seychelles’ cultural heritage, promoting physical activity, and create great memories. Take time to engage with the local residents and dive into these traditional games, from the beach to local families’ backyard!

FAQ Section

What are the most popular traditional games in Seychelles?

Some of the most popular traditional games in Seychelles include Koko (Coconut Shell Game), Lafet (Hide and Seek), Maryaz Dibwa (Tree Climbing), Ladob (Stone Game), Laklos (Marbles), Kato Torti (Hide the Tortoise) and Sesel Pou Zwaye (Seychelles, Let’s Play!).

Are these games only for children?

No, while many of these games are often played by children, people of all ages can enjoy them. In fact, participating in traditional games is a great way for adults to connect with their cultural heritage and spend time with family and friends.

Where can I learn to play these games?

The best way to learn is from local residents who are familiar with the rules and techniques. You can find these games being played on beaches, in parks, at schools, and during community events. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation and ask for a demonstration.

Are there any specific rules or etiquette to be aware of?

The rules can vary slightly depending on the region and the players. It’s always a good idea to ask for clarification before starting to play. Generally, it’s important to be respectful of the other players and the environment, and to follow the spirit of the game.

What are the cultural benefits of playing these games?

These games help nurture social skills, such as teamwork and communication. They also build coordination and critical-thinking skills. More importantly, these games are educational tools that transmit the Seychellois heritage.

Are there resources where I can explore more about Seychelles culture?

Yes, you can visit the National Museum of Seychelles in Victoria, Mahé, to learn more about the Seychellois culture. The Seychelles National Archives also preserve a significant amount of information about the islands’ traditions and culture.

References

• Ministry of Education, Seychelles.
• National Arts Council, Seychelles.
• Seychelles Heritage Society.

Ready to experience the magic of Seychelles’ traditional games? Seek out local communities, immerse yourself in the playful spirit, and discover the rich cultural heritage these games embody. Whether you’re flipping coconut shells on the beach, hiding in the shadows during a game of Lafet, or singing along to Sesel Pou Zwaye, you’ll not only have fun but also connect with the soul of Seychelles. So, pack your bags, open your mind, and get ready to play! The Seychellois are waiting to share their joyful traditions with you. Come and find out more what make Seychellois traditional games something you shouldn’t miss during your island escape!