Ayin na-ako ede - "We are planting cocoyams" (Childrens play song from South east of Nigeria)
Language: Igbo
This song and its accompanying activities are meant to teach the children the art and value of farming. While singing, the children bend down and make gestures that depict tilling the soil with a hoe. The leader mentions the name of each participating child as the song progresses. This song is usually performed by children between the ages of 5 and 9 (especially girls).
Ayi na-ako ede // We are planting cocoyams
Ede mara mma okuko // Cocoyams are good crops to plant
Uche na-ako ede // Uche is planting cocoyams
Chioma na-ako ede // Chioma is planting cocoyams
Emeka na-ako ede // Emeka is planting cocoyams
Igbo Text is translated into English by Mr C. Obijiaku
Mr Chidi Obijiaku transcribed this song in 2021 for Jiwe Publisher