Some African royal burials and coronations in western Tanganyika

Abstract

SYNOPSIS The localities concerned lie on the eastside of Lake Tanganyika, between the Uha and Ufipa Districts. The burial customs of 22 chiefdoms and the coronation customs of 17 chiefdoms are examined. To avoid repetitions these customs are presented in tabular form. The bodies of chiefs are sewn up in either red and white oxhides or in black ones. In many the skull is buried separately from the body. A number of burials are water or river burials, otherwise remains are placed in boxes supported on trestles in a hut. A feature is a special group of morticians. The coronation ceremonies take place outside the village. The chief, having previously been dressed in his hut, is escorted to the spot, stands on the stool (throne) and a head‐dress is then placed on his head. Among a number of chiefdoms the new chief then shoots an arrow into the air. The chief returns to the village, sits on the stool with a royal spear in his hand, receives presents and the homage of his people. The Kibunga shell is the main it...