Tabwa

Democratic Republic of Congo
(formerly Zaire)

Historically, the Tabwa have lived under the Luba domination in small autonomous villages scattered within a territory that expands across the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia along Lake Tanganyika. Interestingly, the verb 'tabwa' means 'to be tied up' and refers to when these people were taken as slaves. During the 19th century, the ivory trade brought wealth to the region and the Tabwa gained their independence. The tribe is led by chief-sorcerers who rule over village chiefs and family chiefs. Their power is counterbalanced by male societies created on Luba prototypes and by female associations influenced by East African models. Traditionally, the Tabwa made their living from hunting and blacksmithing; nowadays, they farm and fish.

~ links to TABWA items on ETHNIX.COM ~

TABWA Helmet Masks

TABWA Stools