Central African Republic - The forest and residential reference camps pygmy AKA of the Central African Republic

Mongoumba Forest It is a semi-deciduous forest typical of Terminalia superba and Tryplochyton scleroxylon which marks its specificity compared to other types of Central African sylves. In addition to non-woody species composed of young plants waiting for a thinning to develop, there is an abundant herbaceous flora including a wide variety of marantaceae that is used in the construction of Aka huts. This forest is also the pantry of this population that draws most of its livelihood (caterpillar, small or large mammal, mushroom ...). This "foster mother" that is the forest offers seasonal products that are picked for the immediate needs while respecting the balance of the environment. The Pygmies Aka The Aka pygmies are considered the first inhabitants of the Central African Republic. They roamed the great equatorial rainforest of the south-west of this country with the seasons in search of game, mushrooms, edible roots etc. and especially engaged in elephant hunting. On the occasion of these subsistence activities, they established temporary encampments. As they evolved, the Aka pygmies were able to develop within these camps, although temporary, knowledge, know-how and exemplary skills, particularly in terms of hunting, pharmacopoeia, dance and music.