Masubia

The Masubia are the largest tribe in Caprivi Strip Their traditional authority (kuta) is based in Bukalo.^[2]

History

They Masubia originate from Central Africa. In Southern Africa they first settled in the Goha Hills of Botswana. Due to the tribal conflicts in Botswana, they moved to the great Caprivi. In that region they erected their headquarters in Bukalo under the leadership of the first Masubia king, King Sanjo.^[3] The invasion of the Lozi of Zambia and the Kololo of South Africa between the 17th and 18th century led to the current blend of cultures, language and traditions.

Ways of life

They live off farming and gathering, hunting and fishing. The women are responsible for farming activities while the men deal with the hunting and fishing. Their staple food is hard porridge (inkoko) with fish or sour milk (masanza).

Villages

The Masubia villages are called minzi. The homes consist of huts made up of a mud wall and thatch roof. The huts are surrounded by a reed fence known as ilapa. The villages often consist of 15 to 30 families..

nkuhaane village names are given in accordance or with consideration to major life events that took place or were believed to have taken place in that area such as ^[4] the main villages of the nkuhaane people are, Ibbu, Mahundu, Vuruha, Mutikitila, Ngala, Ciseke ca banyai, Ioma, Bbwaara, Cizungwe and Iseke.

Religion

Masubia religion is based on ancestor worship, wherein the deceased ancestors are regarded as guardian spirits. Those who do not honor nor show respects to these spirits are punished. They believe that these spirits have a connection with the Creator, and serve as mediators. According to the Joshua Project, forty percent of the Masubia are Christians while sixty percent practice ethnic religion.^[5]

Culture

The Masubia are well known for their vibrant cultural dances known as Chiperu and Chizo and their traditional attire, Musisi.^[6]

References