Festival Nguon

Nguon takes place every two years in Foumban, historic capital of the Bamum kingdom in western Cameroon and seat of its dynasty since the 14th century. This centuries-old tradition combines traditional dances, ritual ceremonies, conferences and feasts over about a week, centered on the symbolic dethronement and reinstallation of the king. Inscribed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, it stands as a major identity event for the Bamum people, more a governance ritual than a music festival in the strict sense.