The Gorwaa people, also known as the Gorowa or Gweno, are an indigenous Cushitic ethnic group residing primarily in the northern regions of Tanzania, particularly in the Arusha and Manyara regions. They traditionally practiced agriculture, livestock herding, and trade. Their cultural traditions, including music, dance, and unique oral literature, reflect their history, beliefs, and social organization. Here’s a brief overview of the Gorwaa people. Family Structure Traditionally, the Gorowa people are of patrilineal descent. Children born in a marriage follow their father’s clan and kinship. Males are heads of the family in that the father or eldest sons have the power to control a household. Gorwaa Clans The Gorwaa recognized several clans associated with a particular function in society. The clans included; Qooloo Harna’aa clan (paramount chief, wawitumo) Haryaambi clan Gilawee clan Gaytu clan Sumaye clan Har’iwaay clan Harahama clan Harsule clan Totems Clans among the Gorowa ha
Everything you need to know about the Nandi people Image via Unsplash The Nandi people, a prominent East African ethnic community, predominantly reside in the scenic highlands of the Nandi Hills in Kenya's Rift Valley Province. Beyond Kenya, they extend into parts of Uganda and Eastern Zaire. In Kenya, their presence is notable in counties such as Nandi, Uasin-Gishu, Trans-Nzoia, Nakuru, and segments of Narok. Historically, the Nandi settlements were characterized by an equitable distribution, eschewing the typical village clustering. This geographical dispersion reflects their sedentary lifestyle, rooted in cattle herding and sporadic agricultural practices. The Nandi's geographic placement has not only shaped their cultural practices but also influenced their historical interactions with external forces, as seen during the resistance against British colonial endeavors. Want to know more about the Nandi people? Keep reading! Pre-Colonial Livelihoods Before the encroachme