Hemba

Democratic Republic of Congo
(formerly Zaire)

During the 18th century, the Hemba, led by their chief Niembo, migrated from the southwest and settled on the right bank of the Lualaba River, in a region of fertile savannah. The Hemba are divided into large clans which, by definition, are families with a common ancestor. The hereditary cheif of each clan is called the Fumu Mwalo and is the keeper of the ancestor figures. He renders justice and his status as clan head means that he has the priviledge of receiving numerous gifts. The Hemba live mostly from farming manioc, sesame, yams and beans. Secret societies such as the Bukazanzi for the men and Bukibilo for the women couterbalance the Fumu Mwalo's power.

~ links to HEMBA items on ETHNIX.COM ~

HEMBA Passport Masks

HEMBA Headrests