Tanzanian is an East African country with diverse culture. It was previously called Tanganyika which was a name given by a British civil servant during the 1920s but by 1961 it received its independence from the German rule and by 1964 it was joined with Zanzibar and other islands which it the today United Republic of Tanzania. Hence the rich culture we see today.
The fact that Tanzania was formerly colonized by both Britain and Germany, most architectural designs in the country reflect the German, British and Arab occupation and influence. Also there is a long rich history about the slave trade and other goods sold in that time can be spotted in the architectural buildings and remains, also on the Zanzibar Island and other coastal towns have these styles hence reflecting various cultures; the Chinese, Arabs, Portuguese, India and Arabs. There are a number of tombs, nineteenth century stone houses and Arab mosques in Bagamoyo.
People, Tribes, Religion, and Languages
Therefore the Tanzanian culture is Swahili, an African/Arab mix, also various Indian communities in cities and towns. There are also some tribes that are found in rural areas like the Maasai communities found in the north near Serengeti National Park. Tanzanians just like any other African countries is generally social, this means that even when you are visiting a relative or a friend no serious prior schedules or plans are required. The people are generally hospitable.
Over 120 ethnic groups settle on the mainland in Tanzania, most of them migrated from other parts of Africa over the years. The Swahili people along the coast originated from the intermarriages of traders during the 8th Century.
A total number of 130 languages are spoken allover Tanzania with most of them from the Bantu tribe. Swahili is Tanzania’s National Language however it with English are the official languages of the country.
About the cuisines of Tanzania, the staple food based on which region one comes from. For example, the people from southwest like Ugali, the ones from Northwest eat mainly plantains and those at the coast prefer rice. These food are usually accompanied by beef, chicken, fish, goat, beans, Sukuma wiki, sweet potatoes, pumpkins and various vegetables. Also along the streets and in most restaurants you find samosas, chapattis, fried fish and various fast foods.
In Tanzania, Christianity and Islam are the main religions. With over 40% practicing Christianity and about 35% Islam. Along the coast, Islam is the main religion and also practiced in some parts inland. The remaining percentage is for the other traditions and beliefs, also the Hindus and Sikhs are minor but practice their religion in the country.
Tanzania Cultural Experiences
Attend the Mwaka Kogwa festival: this is a 4 day event held every year in the month of July or August in Zanzibar where local men beat fellow men with banana stalks, in this they are settling all arguments they had from the previous year. In this event celebrations go on with big fire, singing, dancing and feasting.
Be part of the Wanyambo Festival: Is your interest experiencing Tanzanian culture to the fullest? Then attend this colorful festival, it is more of a celebration of dance, costumes, music and food. It is held every January in Dar es Salaam. Basically this cultural festival is with the aim of showing the beauty of the Wanyambo culture and their crafts, hence attracts hundreds of people from the country side, other parts of Tanzania and all around the world.
Meet the Maasai in the Ngorongoro Crater: You cannot count your visit to Tanzania complete if you have not visited Tanzania’s widely known indigenous people known as the Maasai, they are well-known for being fierce warriors and proud people. The only best opportunity you can get to visit this community is when you visit the Ngorongoro Crater in the Northern part of Tanzania, these people still live traditional lives form their dress code, food, education, and even their homes. It is a great experience while interacting with these people. You can also buy crafts and handmade beads from the women who do this to earn a living.
Explore the Narrow Streets of the Stone Town: Stone Town is Zanzibar’s main City, also known as Mji Mkongwe. It is a rich Swahili cultural coastal trading town, which is the basis of culture on the island. While here, visitors can visit locally made houses with beautiful wooden doors, sultan’s Palace and the animated bazaars. The other interesting thing is moving freely along narrow historical streets; this makes Stone Town unique and no wonder is a UNSECO World Heritage Site.
Visit the Hadzabe found near Lake Eyasi: Thinking about Tanzania’s ancient traditions and history, the Hadzabe should be your first priority. These are indigenous gatherers and hunters that stay near the spectacular Lake Eyasi. Due to modernization, their culture ad traditional way of living has been threatened in most parts of the country and therefore an area has been given to them where they can continue living their traditional life peacefully as they prefer it to be.
While on safari to southern Serengeti ensure to spare time to visit the Hadza. They are a great tribe and the local people will be glad to take you for hunting, also participate in organizing weapons and the women can show you how a homestead is prepared, you can participate in this to.
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