The Kavango people

The Kavango people, also known as the vaKavango or haKavango, are a Bantu ethnic group residing along the Kavango River, which forms part of the border between Namibia and Angola. Their traditional homeland is the Kavango Region in Namibia, where they have lived for centuries, with a lifestyle deeply tied to the river and its surrounding environments. The Kavango people are largely riverine, relying on fishing, livestock farming, and agriculture for their livelihoods. Pearl millet is their main crop, used to prepare staple dishes like porridge, and it is also fermented to make a traditional drink.

The Kavango people are divided into five kingdoms: Kwangali, Mbunza, Shambyu, Gciriku, and Mbukushu. Each kingdom is led by a hompa or fumu, titles meaning “king.” Despite the influence of modern governance, traditional leadership and customs remain important, and the Kavango people continue to follow their customary laws. These laws are respected and supported by the Namibian constitution, which allows for the coexistence of traditional and national legal systems.

One key social aspect of the Kavango people is their matrilineal kinship system, where descent and inheritance are traced through the mother’s side. This system places a high value on extended families, known as Ekoro. The concept of Ekoro is not limited to blood relations but extends to include individuals who form alliances through events such as floods or war. Social status within Ekoro is determined by the seniority of the clan, with those from senior clans commanding respect from junior clans.

The Kavango people practice Christianity, but many still retain elements of their traditional beliefs. During the harvest season, they enjoy eating mafumpura, a tuber-like plant that is dug from the soil. The Kavango also build their kitchens outside their homes, using thatched roofs for shelter. Through these customs, the Kavango people maintain a strong connection to their land and heritage.