Imagine holding a piece of Yoruba history in the palm of your hand, hearing the rhythmic beats of the iconic Dundun drum as it tells a story of royalty, love, and war.
Thanks to Olorunfemi Olorunsaiye, this experience is no longer a dream but a digital reality. Through his groundbreaking project, DundunAR, Olorunfemi is using augmented reality (AR) to bring Yoruba culture to a global audience.
“The Dundun drum isn’t just music—it’s a storyteller. It carries the history and soul of the Yoruba people, but much of its beauty is lost to those unfamiliar with its rhythms,” Olorunfemi explains. With DundunAR, he’s closing that gap, transforming an ancient tradition into an interactive experience for the modern world.
DundunAR combines cutting-edge AR technology with Yoruba heritage. Using a smartphone or AR headset, users can explore a 3D model of the Dundun drum, listen to its melodies, and immerse themselves in folklore passed down through generations. From tales of warriors to romantic sagas, the app doesn’t just teach—it engages, ensuring that users feel connected to the culture, no matter where they are.
“We’ve created a platform where anyone can interact with Yoruba traditions in a meaningful way,” says Olorunfemi. “It’s about making cultural preservation accessible and personal.”
Cultural heritage across the world is under threat, with traditions fading as communities evolve. DundunAR serves as a reminder of how technology can play a role in keeping history alive. But it’s not just for cultural enthusiasts—this is a chance for anyone, from students to casual learners, to discover a part of Africa they might never have encountered.
“AR has the power to educate and entertain simultaneously, creating experiences that stick with you. It’s not about replacing tradition but amplifying it for a global audience,” Olorunfemi explains.
You might wonder: How did someone from a construction background end up preserving culture with AR? Olorunfemi spent years managing complex projects in construction, where problem-solving and creativity were daily necessities.
“The skills I gained in construction—planning, execution, and adaptation—have been invaluable in bringing DundunAR to life,” he says.
With a Master’s in Virtual and Extended Realities from UWE Bristol, Olorunfemi combined his practical experience with academic knowledge to create an app that’s as engaging as it is educational.
DundunAR isn’t just about Yoruba culture—it’s a call to action for preserving traditions worldwide. Imagine an app that lets you explore Mayan ruins or learn ancient Japanese calligraphy. The possibilities are endless, and DundunAR is paving the way.
“This is just the start,” says Olorunfemi. “Every culture has stories worth telling, and AR gives us a new way to tell them.”
Olorunfemi is already looking ahead, aiming to expand DundunAR and inspire similar projects globally. His message is clear: preserving culture isn’t just about the past—it’s about the future.
Whether you’re a history buff, a tech enthusiast, or someone curious about the world, DundunAR offers a unique window into Yoruba heritage. With the beat of the Dundun drum, Olorunfemi invites us all to listen, learn, and connect
