Nso

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The Nso are a people of the Grasslands region in the Northwest Province of Cameroon. Their traditional language is Lamnso (language of Nso) and their capital is Kumbo. Both the people and the capital are sometimes referred to as Banso (people of Nso) - the addition of the Ba prefix is attributed to the Fulani conquerors in the 17th century; the prefix resonates in the names of towns around the area.

The Fon is the traditional ruler. He is both the head of the traditional government and the chief religious authority in charge of keeping the ancestors happy. His power is kept in check by regulatory groups such as the "Ngwerong" (also "Nwerong") and the "Ngiri" (comparatively, lower and upper chambers of parliament). New Fons are selected from a group of eligible princes by a system kept secret from those eligible, thus eliminating a possible source of corruption. The present Fon is Sehm Mbinglo I. Young and dynamic, he has reinforced traditional authority and the respect for human dignity despite the pressures of the modern world. The princes are called WONTOH and regularly meet in the presence of the Fon to discuss family matters.

Nso society is divided into groups according to lineage. Each lineage group is lead by a "Fai". Tradition dictates that the hand of a Fai is not to be shaken. Fais can be recognized by their glass bead necklaces and fancy walking sticks. Several lineage groups are grouped together under a "Shufai".

Jujus, masked spirits, are an important part Nso culture. (The word "Juju" can also refer to some type of magic.) Jujus come out on important occasions. Ngwerong and Ngiri (the prince's society) each have seven jujus, often seen passing by on the way to the death celebration of one of the society members. The passing by of a juju being lead by its handlers and followed by children is quite the street performance. Other jujus include groups that dance to drums and xylophones.

Another traditional organization is "Mfu", a warrior society. Each village has its own chapter with its own meeting house where the group gathers every eighth day (the traditional week). It is a place where men in the village can come to hear the latest news and where the village leaders can disseminate information or organize village work. Most Mfu houses are richly decorated with carved posts, both inside and outside. To enter the Mfu house, one must wear a hat and a cutlass, and one must bring a drinking cup to partake in the drinking of "Melu" (raffia palm wine). Each member of Mfu must take their turn supplying the group with palm wine. When a member has done an adequate job of "celebrating" Mfu, the drums will come out for dancing.

[edit] Nso People

• Bernard Fonlon
• Christian Wiyghan Cardinal Tumi
• Archbishop Paul Verdzekov