Konbit (also spelled coumbite) is a Haitian Creole term for a Creole word for co-operation. A Haitian traditional form of communal working group in a sociopolitical sense. Commonly used as an agricultural group, political action, community patrol, arts and dance groups. It is similar to barn raising in North America. A related type of communal work is a kóve.
Etymology
The Spanish word "convite" is used in the Dominican Republic in a somewhat similar way. The word "convite" means invite, a board or "junta" in that context.
Use
The term is used in the names of some Haitian and diaspora NGOs, and even of several Haitian political parties.
As a dance
It can also refer to a style of Haitian music and dance associated with work parties, possibly being a form of influence on Rara music, and the sense of solidarity has also been compared to that of hip-hop culture.
Kombit dances (Dance troupes) perform at all facets of events and festivals of society.
