The Aka Pygmies have a wide-spread population, located in the Northern Congo and southern CAR. Recently, they have largely turned to agriculture as a significant means of survival, due to the loss of accessible forest.
The Aka's believe the origin of their being is due to a women following the sound of bees and until she discovered honey within the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The honey was so good, that she decided to stay. However, the Aka belief system is varied since the people are so widespread. Many tribes have their traditional healer (ngana). Djenji is said to be the forest spirit and the most helpful. Communications with Djenji usually occur with a special healer, or Tuma. They have an extremely equal society. Both men and women have very specific roles in finding. There are also very limited instances of violence against women (by the Pygmy people). Marriage occurs when a man moves his hunting gear in with a woman, with no special ceremony. Divorce can be initiated by either party at any time. |