I emerge from a structure of palm leaves and fabric that conceals the people carrying me. They must be highly skilled to be able to keep me balanced on the tops of their heads.
I represent the genie of the Ninki-Nanka python. I am the genie of the forces of the sky, earth and water. I bring people prosperity, loyalty, wealth and opposition to all forms of evil. I am kept in a forest and accompanied by a magic stone that symbolizes the spirit of the Mbanchong.
When I come to a village, I am accompanied by my guard, who holds the magic stone. To announce my arrival, bells are rung and antelope horns are blown. This gives uninitiated villagers the time to hide, because only the initiated are allowed to gaze upon me.
