A GLOBAL PAST TIME

Mancala

Its amazing to think that a game that I learned as a young American, has been around for centuries!

Mancala can look different from place to place, but the rules and essential strategy of the game remain the same.

Here, these people have made their game board in the ground using stones as the game pieces.

This is a more formal game board, built for people to entertain themselves while waiting in an airport. What a great game to have in an airport, where travelers from around the world converge.

Here adults are playing mancala in a informal, social setting.

In this picture children are learning to play mancala in what looks like a school environment.

People in Africa playing Mancala on a board carved out of stone.

Mancala is a perfect example of how one activity can take many different forms, and serve many different purposes, while still remaining the same conceptually. This game has the ability to transcend borders, culture, and language differences. In a world that focuses on all our differences, Mancala is an excellent way for humans of all nations to experience the common values of community and entertainment.