Ethnic Relations.
Within the borders of Tanzania co-exist approximately over 120 ethnic groups speaking languages representing all four major African language groups. These include Khoisan, or “click”speaking hunter-gatherers, Nilotic-speaking pastoralists (such as the Maasai), Cushitic speakers, and Bantu speakers; the latter predominate in terms of population size. The largest ethnic groups include the Sukuma (over three million), and the Chagga, Haya, and Nyamwezi (over one million each). Despite the tremendous cultural and linguistic diversity among Tanzanians, ethnic groups are united by the use of a common language—Swahili—and a sense of national identity. The growing number of refugees (from neighboring Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda in particular) do not appear to have caused serious ethnic tensions, but they have become a serious strain on the economy and the local environment.
The Maasai are a Nilotic ethnic group inhabiting southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. They are among the best known local populations internationally due to their residence near the many game parks and their distinctive customs and dress.The Maasai speak the “Maa” language as member of the Nilotic language family.
The Hadza, or Hadzabe, are an indigenous ethnic group in north-central Tanzania, living around Lake Eyasi in the central Rift Valley and in the neighboring Serengeti Plateau. There are between 1,200 and 1,300 Hadza people living in Tanzania, however only around 400 Hadza still survive exclusively based on the traditional means of foraging.
The Datoga are believed to be highland southern nilotes who originated from southern Sudan or from the western Ethiopian highlands over 3000 years ago.
They migrated from up north and split into two groups one is Kalenjin tribe which belong to this group. Swahili name Mang’ati comes from Maasai, where it means “enemy”. However, it is not considered offensive to the Datooga, as there is a degree of pride in being the historic enemy of the Maasai, and Mang’ati has become the standard name for the group
Travel with African Mangu Safaris for unforgettable, tailor-made safaris in Tanzania’s iconic locations like Serengeti & Kilimanjaro. Experience luxury, culture, and nature with our expert guides ensuring a personalized, sustainable adventure.
