African Tribes That Use Stilts || Culture and Traditions

In many parts of Africa, people have created unique ways to express their culture, celebrate, and connect with the spirit world. One of these special traditions is stilt walking and stilt dancing. This is when people walk or dance while standing on long wooden sticks tied to their legs, making them appear very tall.

Not all African tribes use stilts, but for the few that do, it is a very important part of their festivals and ceremonies. Let’s take a look at some of the African tribes known for using stilts and why it is so special to them.

1. Dogon Tribe – Mali

The Dogon people in Mali are one of the most famous groups that use stilts. They perform stilt dances during a ceremony called Dama, which helps guide the spirits of dead relatives to the afterlife. The dancers wear tall wooden masks and stand on long stilts, sometimes over 10 feet high. They move quickly, jump, and spin in the air to impress the crowd. These dancers are believed to represent spirits or gods visiting the living. The Dogon stilt dance is not just fun to watch, it is also a serious spiritual event.

2. Yoruba People – Nigeria

Among the Yoruba people in Nigeria, stilt walking is sometimes seen during festivals and cultural shows like the Are festival in Lagos state. Although it is not as traditional as in Dogon culture, it is still used to entertain and celebrate. The dancers wear colorful clothes and perform tricks while walking high above the crowd. In some places, stilt walking is included in masquerade events. It brings joy and amazement to people, especially during festive times.

Even though stilt dancing is not a major tradition among all Yoruba groups, it has become a fun and creative part of some of their festivals.

3. Makonde People – Tanzania and Mozambique

The Makonde people in East Africa, especially in Tanzania and Mozambique, also use stilt dancing during community events and celebrations. Dancers dress up in painted costumes and dance on stilts during village gatherings. Sometimes, they wear masks or act like characters from local stories.

The stilt dancers are often the highlight of the celebration. The Makonde are also known for their amazing wood carvings, and they bring that same artistic touch to their dances.

4. Baga and Nalu Tribes – Guinea

In Guinea, the Baga and Nalu tribes include stilt dancing in ceremonies like harvest celebrations and initiation rituals. Dancers wear large masks and climb on tall stilts. Their dancing is believed to bring blessings or chase away bad spirits. These performances are done in front of the whole community and are full of music and excitement.

Why Do These Tribes Use Stilts?

In the tribes that use stilts, it is more than just a performance. It has deep meaning. Stilt dancing can be a way to:

• Celebrate special events like harvests or funerals.
• Represent spirits or ancestors.
• Protect the community from evil.
• Show bravery and skill.
• Bring people together in joy and excitement.

Learning to walk and dance on stilts takes time and training. Many stilt dancers start learning when they are young.

Stilt dances are still done in many places today. They can be seen during,

Traditional festivals in villages.

Cultural events in cities.

Tourist shows and carnivals.

National celebrations and heritage programs.

Stilt dancing remains a strong part of African culture, especially in the tribes that have used it for generations. It helps keep traditions alive and reminds people of their rich history.

Conclusion

Stilt dancing in Africa is a beautiful mix of tradition, spirit, and joy. Whether it’s the Dogon tribe guiding spirits, the Makonde dancing in celebration, the Baga and Nalu blessing the harvest, or the Yoruba entertaining during festivals, each tribe uses stilts in a special way.

This tradition is a proud part of Africa’s cultural story, showing that even in celebration, African culture always rises high.