The West African Research Association has chosen the Chiwara as its organizational symbol. It is an integral part of our logo, which also encompasses the word “WARA.” “Chiwara” is the name of a cultural hero from the Bamana people of Mali. It refers to a half-antelope half-man creature that came down from the sky and brought farming to the Bamana. In honor of Chiwara, the Bamana carve elaborate headdresses in the form of an antelope. These are worn during ceremonial dances, which are intended to promote growth of the millet crop.
