The Yeyi people

The Yeyi people, also known as the Mayeyi or Bayeyi, are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group native to Southern Africa, with significant populations in Botswana and Namibia. They are part of the larger Lozi ethnic group and have a rich history that dates back to their migration in the 18th century. The Yeyi people migrated southward from the north and settled in the Ngamiland region of Botswana and parts of Namibia. Upon their arrival, they integrated with the San people, particularly the Xanikhwe clan, who had already established their presence in the area. The relationship between the Yeyi and the San was based on cooperation, with the Yeyi learning many survival skills from the San, including advanced fishing techniques.

The Yeyi speak ShiYeyi, a language that incorporates distinctive click sounds influenced by the San languages. However, in formal settings, such as education, media, and official communication, the Yeyi people use Silozi, a language widely spoken in the region. The Yeyi are known for their canoe-building technology, which they introduced to the Ngamiland region. This skill, along with their expertise in fishing, played a vital role in their adaptation to the riverine environment.

In the early 19th century, the Yeyi came into contact with the BaTswana people, particularly the BaTawana tribe, who arrived in the Ngamiland region. Many Yeyi people became serfs or batlhanka of the BaTawana, though this servitude was often voluntary as it provided protection and security. Despite these challenges, the Yeyi people maintained their cultural identity and traditions.

In Namibia, the Mayeyi were recognized as an independent tribe in 1992, after having previously been under the Mafwe traditional authority. Their cultural and political significance has continued to grow, particularly through the annual Batsara Batsapi cultural festival, held in Sangwali in the Zambezi Region.