Music and dance have long been inextricably linked to all socio-cultural events within the Aka community. They form an integral part of Aka rituals including ceremonies related to the inauguration of new encampments, hunting, territorial camp assemblies and funerals. Unlike polyphonic systems that are written down in notation, the vocal tradition of the Aka Pygmies allows for spontaneous expression and improvisation. The community has elaborated extremely complex musical forms. During performances, each singer can change his or her voice to produce a multitude of variations, creating the impression that the music is continuously evolving. The songs are generally accompanied by various percussion and string instruments, each one played for a specific occasion. Among the most commonly used handcrafted instruments are a local type of tom-tom (enzeko), a harp-like instrument known as the geedalebagongo and the single string bow (mbela). The songs perpetuate knowledge considered essential for the cohesion of the group and the preservation of community values. The dances are performed to the accompaniment of vibrant hand clapping. Depending on the ritual, some dances feature men only, while others may be executed by male and female couples or in certain cases, by solo dancers. Relying entirely on oral transmission over many generations, the Aka Pymgies have succeeded in preserving their musical knowledge within the entire community by including children in rituals from an early age.

The lifestyle of the Aka Pygmies has been drastically disrupted owing to the changes currently taking place in the Central African Republic. The scarcity of game resulting from deforestation, the rural exodus and the folklorization of their heritage for the tourist industry are the principal factors contributing to the gradual disappearance of many of their traditional customs, rituals and skills.

The planned Centre for the Conservation and Promotion of the Heritage of the Aka Pygmies, dedicated largely to oral traditions, will support the documentation and safeguarding of Aka traditions as well as encouraging exchanges between researchers. In order to gain better legal protection, the Aka traditions will be listed on the national heritage register.