In the courtyard of a psychiatric ward in Mali’s capital, patients take part in a traditional form of theatre used to work through problems. The patients act out scenes of village disputes to the beat of a djembe, a traditional West African drum. This form of theatre, known as koteba, is practised by Mali’s largest ethnic group, the Bambara, and typically combines acting, singing and dancing.
Koteba is usually performed in villages as a means of addressing issues and providing a space for satire. At Point G hospital in Bamako, koteba serves as a way to offer support and a sense of community to individuals receiving psychiatric care. Mali faces a shortage of mental health professionals, with fewer than 50 available for a population of over 20 million. Consequently, many people with mental illnesses are left untreated and excluded from society.
Souleymane Coulibaly, a clinical psychologist at Point G hospital, noted that patients who participate in koteba often leave the hospital more quickly than those who do not. One patient, Mamadou Diarra, shared his experience, expressing how engaging in theatre helped him discover new skills and brought him joy.
Adama Bagayoko, the director of the visiting theatre troupe, highlighted that the weekly performances provide a rare space for patients to feel heard and respected. Through koteba, patients and actors engage in dialogue, dance together and share laughter. The performances offer patients the opportunity to express themselves and connect with others in a meaningful way.
The koteba performances at Point G consist of three phases: inviting patients with music, performing a skit based on a chosen theme, and allowing patients to share their thoughts in a circle afterwards. Patients often reveal personal details during these sessions, which can help healthcare providers better understand their needs and challenges.
The themes enacted during the performances range from societal issues like theft and domestic violence to drug abuse and alcoholism. Despite facing external challenges such as political instability and security threats, the patients find solace and escape in the world created through koteba.
The use of Mali’s cultural practices in psychiatric care dates back to 1983 when koteba was first introduced to the hospital. Since then, patients and actors have continued to meet every Friday for these therapeutic performances. The impact of koteba on the well-being of patients underscores the value of incorporating traditional arts in mental healthcare practices.
As patients like Mamadou Diarra immerse themselves in the world of theatre, they find moments of relief and self-discovery. The koteba performances not only serve as a form of therapy but also as a reminder of the healing power of art and community in challenging circumstances.