Chokwe

Chokwe is an ethnic group predominantly residing in Angola, with smaller populations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia. They are part of the Bantu language family and have a rich cultural heritage characterized by their art, music, and social structures.

The Chokwe are historically known for their skilled craftsmanship, particularly in making intricate masks, sculptures, and textiles. Their art often features stylized faces, animals, and geometric patterns, which hold spiritual and social significance. These artifacts play an essential role in rituals, ceremonies, and social identity.

Traditionally, the Chokwe society is organized into chiefdoms governed by a paramount chief or "Nkangamba," who oversees social affairs, justice, and rituals. Ancestor worship and spiritual practices are central to their worldview, often involving elaborate ceremonies led by spiritual leaders. The society emphasizes communal values, respect for elders, and kinship bonds.

Economically, the Chokwe traditionally engaged in agriculture, cultivating crops such as millet, maize, and cassava, while also practicing hunting and fishing. In more recent times, some community members have diversified into trade and other forms of livelihood, influenced by urbanization and modernization.

The Chokwe language is called Chiokwe, a Bantu language closely related to other regional languages. Despite external influences, many Chokwe maintain their cultural practices and traditional beliefs, contributing to the diverse cultural mosaic of Central Africa.

Overall, the Chokwe are recognized for their vibrant cultural expressions and enduring social structures that reflect a deep connection to their heritage and environment.