Akamba

Andrew M. Mbuvi

Akamba are a Kenyan people who speak ki-kamba and are mostly found in the Central Eastern part of the country (Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, and Mwingi districts). Early pioneers in iron smelting within the region, the Akamba had advanced weaponry (e.g., iron-tipped arrows) that gave them an edge over surrounding communities and earned them a reputation as gallant warriors, great marksmen, and tradesmen. Trading mainly in ivory, beer, honey, iron implements, and beads, they bartered their wares with neighboring Maasai and Kikuyu, as well as with the Arabs along the coast. The sociopolitical structure of the Akamba includes the family unit, musie (both (mbaT) ...

Users without subscription are not able to see the full content on this title. Please, subscribe or login to access all content on this website.