THE MAJOR ETHNIC GROUPS IN TANZANIA

Tanzania, an East African country, is home to more than 120 distinct cultural groups. Although the population is diverse, the vast majority may be categorized into a small number of ethnic groups.

About 16 percent of Tanzanians identify as Sukuma, making them the country’s biggest ethnic group. Their main concentration is in the northwest, close to Lake Victoria. The Sukuma are well-known for their musical and dancing traditions, as well as their agricultural and fishing techniques.

The Chagga are the country’s second-largest ethnic group, making up around 13% of the total population. They are well-known for its coffee production and tourism because of their central location in the Kilimanjaro area. Traditional Chagga houses are distinguished by their use of straw and wood.

The Haya are Tanzania’s third-largest ethnic group, making up around 12% of the country’s total population. Their main concentration is in the northwest, close to Lake Victoria. The Haya are well-known for their traditional arts, including as pottery, basketry, dancing, and song.

The Nyamwezi account for about 9% of Tanzania’s population and are concentrated in the country’s central region; the Hehe account for about 5% of the population and are concentrated in the south; and the Makonde account for about 4% of the population and are concentrated in the southeast.

It’s worth noting that Tanzania is home to several distinct ethnic groups, all of which have their own cultures and customs. The cultural diversity of Tanzania is enriched by the contributions of many different ethnic groups, but these are some of the most prominent.