Yoruba Folksong Philosophical Approach to Health Education: Curbing the Spread of COVID-19

Abstract

Throughout the world's history, there are cases of epidemics in nearly every country, state, and community at various times. During the dark ages in Africa, a number of diseases led to the premature deaths of young ones, adults, and even the elderly within clans and communities. Back then, people believed that outbreaks were caused by the wrathful gods of their communities, whereas it was the unsanitary living conditions and lack of hygiene that served as catalysts for these epidemics. Consequently, the people constantly remained at risk of incessant outbreaks. However, the Yorubas in Southwest Nigeria, among others, have a rich traditional culture that permeates their daily lives and surroundings. Music, as an integral part of their culture, accompanies all aspects of individual and communal existence. Education is deemed crucial for a good life and health. The Yoruba people have employed diverse methods to instil education in their growing citizens, dating back to the neo-colonial era. These methods include teaching folk songs, folk tales, poems, proverbs, and imitating societal values and norms.

The emergence of COVID-19 with its deadly implications has instilled fear worldwide. Everyone pondered preventive measures through education before considering treatment and cure. Preventing the virus spread became the responsibility of individuals and organizations all levels. This discussion examines the impact of an educational Yoruba folksong that promotes self-restraint to mitigate contact with this deadly disease and recommends their adoption at the local level of human habitation to enhance understanding and adaptation to disease prevention and control measures.