By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Africa’s Talking Drum: When the Goat Counted the Yams
In the fertile land of Ndalika, harvest season was a time of pride. Yams were stacked high, barns were filled, and every animal contributed to the wealth of the land.
To ensure fairness, the council chose someone to count and distribute the harvest.
After much debate, Goat stepped forward.
“I am humble,” Goat said, bowing his head. “I know hunger. I will be fair to all.”
The animals agreed. Goat was given charge over the yam barns.
At first, everything seemed orderly. Goat moved from barn to barn, keeping records, calling out numbers, and assuring everyone that their share was safe.
But slowly, whispers began.
The Tortoise noticed that his portion was smaller than usual.
The Hare complained that his name was missing from the list.
Even the hardworking Ants began to wonder why their share kept shrinking.
Each time concerns were raised, Goat had an answer.
“There was a miscount.”
“You came late.”
“You must be patient.”
And because Goat spoke gently, many believed him.
Meanwhile, Goat’s pen grew larger. His family never lacked. His friends seemed to receive their shares early—and in abundance.
One dry afternoon, the old Partridge, who had watched many seasons come and go, spoke up.
“A barn does not empty by mistake,” she said. “It empties by design.”
The animals fell quiet.
That night, they gathered near the largest barn and decided to watch, not listen.
What they saw changed everything.
Goat, under the cover of darkness, moved yams from the common store into his private pen.
By morning, the truth had spread across Ndalika.
Goat tried to explain. He blamed errors, assistants, even the counting system. But it was too late.
The animals had seen for themselves.
He was removed, and a new rule was set: no single animal would ever control the harvest alone again.
For the animals had learned:
Moral: Never hand over your resources without accountability. A soft voice can still hide a greedy heart.
Why do people often trust those who appear humble, even without proof of integrity?
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