Location: SENEGAL

In Laamb, the traditional Senegalese wrestling, mysticism plays a central role. Originally practised by the Serer people as a tribal preparation for battle, it later evolved into a village ritual. Today, Laamb is not only a national sport—more important than even football—but also a path to social redemption. Within Senegalese society, wrestlers are highly respected, often becoming idols for their communities, and the pressure from fans for victory can be immense.

Preparing for each fight involves rituals believed to grant the wrestler supernatural powers and protect him from his opponent. Shamans and religious leaders, known as “sorcerers” or “marabouts,” are in charge of these magical rites. They prepare potions and special amulets called “gris-gris,” which wrestlers wear during the fights, typically around their waists, wrists, or biceps. Depending on the importance of the match, these rituals can begin several weeks in advance.

At the highest levels of Laamb, well-known wrestlers spend large sums to hire a team of shamans and their assistants to ensure the best possible protection and the highest quality of rituals and amulets.

Music also plays a vital role in Laamb, designed to inspire and protect the fighters. The musicians, known as “griots,” embody this tradition, playing percussion throughout the fight, accompanied by repeating chants sung by women. Griots are often feared, as they are believed to possess special powers and be in contact with natural forces.

“The Spirits of Laamb” is an ongoing, long-term project that unveils the ancestral magic and mysticism that define and permeate this unique form of wrestling, whose cultural significance extends far beyond the realm of sports.

ABOUT ANDREA FERRO

Andrea Ferro is an independent photojournalist and videographer, active in West Africa and the Middle East, focusing on social reportage, environmental issues, and architectural photography. Drawn to showing the connection between human existence and the built environment, he explores aspects of transience and how individuals and communities interact with physical space. In 2019, he published the photographic book “No promised land” (Crowdbooks), which shows the daily lives and living conditions in reception centers for migrants in Italy. In 2021, his documentary project “Zaïm” won second place at the Sony World Photography Awards. He is a contributor to the agency Redux Pictures and collaborates with RSI (Swiss Italian TV).