Tracing the Origins of Wakyiwoso of Kilimanjaro Using Agricultural and Postmortem Ritual Features

Eurementyney Mwacha, Romwald Kairembo & William Pallangyo
The Open University of Tanzania
Email: euremwacha@gmail.com

Abstract: The aim of this study was to have in-depth information from oral traditions, literature, and myths depicting the emergence of the Wakyiwoso of Kilimanjaro using agricultural and post-mortem ritual features. The study employed a multi-variant methodology. It used a sample of 88 people who volunteered to participate. Criterion sampling was used, whereby the study involved only respondents who were senior by age, ranging from 50 to 100 years old, and had a good reputation in society. Qualitative data were collected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focused group discussion, and observation and presented thematically using stories, anecdotes, legends, and myths. The findings depicted that the Wakyiwoso were a collection of many origins, some from neighbouring ethnic groups and others coming from as far as the Horn of Africa, the Coast of East Africa, and Madagascar. The broad spectrum of blending makes this ethnic group have diverse physical features and some postmortem ritual differences. However, the rituals, as part of culture, are so dynamic that no one can decide who the proto-Wakyiwoso were by themselves. More studies using new technology, such as DNA and whole genome sequencing (WGS), are needed to determine the sources of the first Wakyiwoso stock in Kilimanjaro.