Ndaka people

Ndaka people
Regions with significant populations
Ituri Forest, Democratic Republic of the Congo 39,000[1]
Languages
Ndaka language

The Ndaka people (of Ndaaka) are an ethnic group of the northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo, many of whom live in the Mambasa Territory of the Ituri Province.[2]

All young Ndaka men had to be initiated to be become full adult members of the tribe. The ceremonies are held every six years or so, and involve traditional songs and dances. In some of these special instruments are used, and masked ritualists act out prescribed roles dressed in full costume.[3]

References

  1. "Ndaka, Ndaaka of Congo, Democratic Republic of". Joshua Project. Retrieved 2011-10-13.
  2. Peer Schouten (March 2011). "A case study of the Nia-Nia area, Ituri District, Province Orientale". IKV Pax Christi. Retrieved 2011-10-11.
  3. Elisofon, Eliot (1972). "Initiation rituals among Ndaka people, near Epulu, Ituri Forest, Congo (Democratic Republic)". Smithsonian. Retrieved 2011-10-13.