Loko people

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The Loko
Total population

147,500 (2.5% of Sierra Leone's population)
Regions with significant populations
Northern Province, Western Area
Languages
Loko language
Religion
Islam (60%), Christianity (40%)

The Loko are one of the indegenous ethnic group in Sierra Leone. They speak a Niger-Congo language that is also called Loko. the majority of the Loko people live in or around the capital city of Freetown and in the Northern Province of the country, particulaly in Port Loko District. The Loko were among the slaves shipped to North America while slavery still existed. The Loko were one of the largest ethnic groups in Sierra Leone during colonial era, but their population have declined since then.

Contents

[edit] Economy

The Loko are primarily farmers. Rice, the staple crop, is grown both in the swamps and on the hill sides. Other important crops include mango, corn, potatoes, peppers, and bananas. In addition, house gardens supply other vegetables, fruits, and nuts for each family.

[edit] Culture

Loko villages are grouped together at the bases of hills, in the open plains, or on the valley floors. Usually, a small group of compact huts makes up a village. These huts are round, with wooden walls and cone-shaped, thatched roofs. Each village is ruled by a chief, and a group of elders.

Loko society is basically patrilineal, which means that they trace their lineage through the males. Polygyny is common among Loko; a Loko man usually have two or more wives. Before a Loko man marries, he must first pay a bride-price to the girl's parents.

The Loko are engaged in several crafts, such as basketry, cabinet making, and net making. In addition, they participate in many important ritual festivities and ceremonies throughout the year. Much dancing accompanies these events.

[edit] Religion and Spiritual beliefs

The Loko are approximately 57% Muslim; 40% follow their indigenous religions and only about 4% of the population is Christian.

Many of the Loko are superstitious and believe in witches who can be either male or female. These witches are believed to derive pleasure from causing accidents and spreading sickness among the tribe. As a result, many Loko fear the witches and carry charms or medicines with them to ward off their evil acts.

[edit] Notable Loko people

Languages