Africa is home to many intriguing traditions, deeply held beliefs, and colourful stories that are passed down from parents to grandparents and then to children. Some of the most fun and mysterious parts of African culture come from old superstitions. People think that those odd but fascinating things can either bring luck or misfortune. Still, a lot of African children discuss them, laugh about them, and occasionally even believe them!
Let's take a look at some of the most outrageous and entertaining African superstitions that children still discuss across the continent.
1. Whistling at Night Brings Snakes
In many African cultures, especially in West Africa, itâs said that whistling at night calls snakes to your house. Some say itâs not just snakes, but also evil spirits! Kids are often warned not to do it, just in case. Whether itâs true or not, many children will still hush their friends if someone starts to whistle after dark.
2. Donât Sweep at NightâYouâll Sweep Away Your Blessings!
This one shows up in lots of homes. If you sweep your house at night, you might be sweeping away your luck, money, or future blessings. Some kids grow up hiding the broom once the sun sets because no one wants to be poor!
3. Hooting Owls Mean Someone Will Die
Owls are considered spooky in many African traditions. If an owl hoots near your house at night, itâs seen as a warning signâmaybe someone in the area is about to pass away. Kids who hear owls sometimes hide under their blankets or run to their parents. Whether itâs fear or fun, the legend lives on.
4. If Your Palm Itches, Money Is Coming!
Now this one is a favorite! If your right palm itches, it means youâre going to receive money soon. So, donât scratch it too much, or you might stop the cash from coming. This superstition is still a popular one among African kids, who rub their palms and dream of new toys or sweets.
5. Donât Eat in the DarkâYouâll Be Dining with Spirits
Some say eating in the dark is dangerous because spirits may join you. This one often makes meal times spooky in places with power outages. Kids might laugh about itâbut many still prefer to eat with the lights on, just to be safe.
6. Jumping Over Someone Will Make Them Short
Ever heard that if you jump over someone lying down, theyâll stop growing? This is a big one on playgrounds across Africa. If someone dares to do it, youâll hear screams like, âYouâre going to stunt me!â Even though most kids donât believe it for real, they still avoid doing it. Just in case.
7. The Power of the Baobab Tree
The baobab tree is called the âTree of Life.â Some children believe that spirits live in these trees. Itâs said that if you touch a baobab at night, you might be taken away by the spirits. This story helps kids respect nature and the environment.
8. The Talking Drumâs Message
In some African communities, the talking drum is believed to carry messages from ancestors. Kids are told that if they hear the drum, they should listen carefully because it might be a warning or good news from the past.
Why These Superstitions Still Matter
These old beliefs may sound funny, but they are an important part of teaching African traditions. They come from African myths and legends, passed down for centuries. They help keep culture alive and remind us where we come from. Many of these cultural beliefs in Africa were used to teach kids good behavior, warn about dangers, or just add magic to everyday life. When we share these fun stories, we help preserve our heritage. And letâs be honestâtheyâre pretty fun to talk about, too!
Now Your Turn!
Have you heard of any of these African superstitions for kids? Do you have any in your own family or community that people still talk about? Drop your favorite superstition in the commentsâweâd love to read some fun African facts from your side! đđŸ