Africa’s Talking Drum: When the Crocodile Promised a Bridge

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Africa’s Talking Drum: When the Crocodile Promised a Bridge

In the riverside kingdom of Malembo, the people lived divided by a great river.

On one side were the farmers with rich soil and golden harvests. On the other side were traders whose markets overflowed with salt, cloth, and spices. Yet despite their closeness, crossing the river was dangerous.

Every rainy season, animals were swept away by strong currents. Families mourned. Trade suffered. For years, the people begged their leaders to build a bridge.

But no bridge came.

Then, during the Season of Choosing, Crocodile rose from the riverbanks with a grand promise.

“If you trust me,” he declared, “I will build the greatest bridge this kingdom has ever seen. No child will fear the river again. No trader will lose goods to the water.”

The crowd erupted in cheers.

At last, they thought, someone understands our pain.

After Crocodile was chosen as leader, work began immediately. Drums sounded across Malembo. Giant wooden signs were placed near the river:

“THE GREAT UNITY BRIDGE — COMING SOON.”

Every moon, Crocodile held ceremonies beside the river. He gave long speeches about progress and sacrifice.

“We are building for the future,” he would say proudly.

But seasons passed, and still there was no bridge.

Only a few wooden poles stood in the water.

Meanwhile, heavy taxes were collected from traders and farmers “for development.” Crocodile’s inner circle grew richer. New mansions appeared along the riverbanks.

Yet the people kept waiting.

One evening, after another boat capsized during a storm, the old Fisher Crane gathered the villagers.

“We keep admiring the drawing of the bridge,” Crane said quietly, “while ignoring the river that still drowns us.”

The animals turned toward the water.

For years, they had listened to speeches, watched celebrations, and praised promises, but the problem before them had never changed.

The next morning, the people demanded answers.

Not songs.

Not banners.

Not ceremonies.

Results.

And when Crocodile could not provide them, the cheers that once lifted him became silence.

For in Malembo, the people finally understood:

Moral: A promise repeated for too long without results becomes deception.

Why do leaders sometimes focus more on announcements than actual results? Share your thoughts below.

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Chioma Ndukwu

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