In a lively village nestled in the heart of Benin, the drum was the soul of the community. Its deep, steady beats called people to gather, celebrated victories, mourned losses, and shared stories from generation to generation. Without the drum, the village would lose its voice.
One bright morning, as the sun climbed over the acacia trees, a great alarm spread: the village drum had vanished. Its absence was felt immediately — silence replaced the usual rhythm that united the villagers.
The elders convened under the large iroko tree, worry etched on their faces. “Who would take our drum? Without it, our traditions will fade,” Chief Bako said gravely.
Many villagers volunteered to find the drum, but the forest was vast and treacherous. Days passed, and no one returned.
Among them lived a tortoise named Kpondo. He was slow, thoughtful, and known for his sharp mind. Watching the concern grow, Kpondo finally spoke, “I will find the drum, but not with speed or strength — with patience and cunning.”
Some laughed. “You’re too slow! You can’t catch thieves faster than a leopard,” a hunter scoffed.
But Kpondo only smiled gently. “Wait and see.”
Setting out at dawn, Kpondo moved steadily, observing the forest’s every sound and shadow. Along his path, he met a vibrant parrot perched high in the branches.
“Where are you going, Kpondo?” squawked the parrot.
“I seek the stolen drum,” Kpondo replied.
The parrot tilted his head. “I saw it carried into the dark forest by a troop of mischievous monkeys. They love to play with loud objects.”
“Thank you, friend. Your eyes are sharp,” said Kpondo.
Deeper into the forest, Kpondo found the monkeys’ camp. The monkeys were dancing and drumming on the stolen drum, laughing joyfully.
Kpondo called out softly, “Good day, friends. That drum is indeed special, but I hear of a bigger, louder drum hidden in a cave nearby. Imagine the music you could make!”
The monkeys’ eyes gleamed with curiosity. “Where is this drum? Show us!” they demanded.
“Follow me,” said Kpondo, leading them deeper into the forest, toward a dark cave.
Excited, the monkeys rushed ahead, eager to find the legendary drum.
Once they were far enough, Kpondo quickly returned to the camp, grabbed the stolen drum, and hurried back to the village.
The villagers erupted with joy at the return of their drum, praising Kpondo’s cleverness.
That night, under a sky filled with stars, the drum beat again, carrying stories and songs across the savanna.
✧ Commentary
This Beninese folktale highlights how intelligence and patience often triumph over speed and brute force. The tortoise’s careful observation and clever trick saved the day, teaching us that wisdom is a powerful tool in solving problems.
✧ Moral
Thinking wisely and acting patiently can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
✧ Questions & Answers
1. Q: What was stolen from the village? A: The drum.
2. Q: Who offered to find the drum? A: The tortoise, Kpondo.
3. Q: How did Kpondo trick the monkeys? A: By telling them about a bigger drum in a cave.
4. Q: What lesson does the story teach? A: Intelligence and patience can solve difficult problems.
5. Q: Why is the drum important to the village? A: It unites the people through music, communication, and tradition
