• Africa,  African Great Lakes,  Indigenous People,  The Efé

    The Efé people

    The Efé people, residing in the dense Ituri Rainforest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, are a notable group among the Pygmies, known for their unique cultural practices and deep connection to their forest environment. Living a semi-nomadic lifestyle, they traditionally engage in hunting and gathering activities, relying on the forest’s rich biodiversity for sustenance. Their small stature, with men averaging 142 cm (4 ft. 8 in.) and women slightly shorter, distinguishes them as one of the shortest ethnic groups globally.   Culturally, the Efé maintain intricate social structures centered around kinship and communal living. They typically live in small, mobile camps, constructing temporary leaf huts for shelter. Their society…