Before we talk about some of Africa’s bizarre cultures in existence, you should know that this a huge continent packed with all sorts of unique traditions that tell amazing stories about its people and what they care about. Some of these customs might seem a little wacky to outsiders, but they’re actually super important to the communities that practice them. Each one seems to play a big part in the lives of those who believe they help foster connections, celebrate important moments, and keep their cultural pride alive.
Now let’s explore some of these fascinating cultures that are being practiced in various parts of Africa.
(Trigger Warning: There are inclusions of graphic media including photo showing body part with piercing and video showing nudity. Viewer’s discretion is advised.)
7 Africa’s Bizarre Cultures (Not Listed in Any Particular Order)
- Insertion of Lip Plates in Ethiopia
- Bull Jumping Ceremony in Ethiopia
- Fattening Rooms for Brides in Nigeria
- Whipping Ceremony Among the Hamar and Fulani Tribes
- Malawi’s Chewa Tribe Festival of the Dead
- Wodaabe Tribe’s Annual Wife-Stealing Festival
- The Maasai Spit Greeting
#1. Insertion of Lip Plates in Ethiopia
Let’s talk about the tradition of inserting lip plates in Ethiopia, specifically among the Mursi and Surma tribes. The process usually starts with young females, who are still in their teenage years, getting their lower lips pierced, and then gradually inserting larger plates made of clay or wood. This can take quite a long time—sometimes months or even years! The size of the lip plate is really important as it often shows a woman’s social status and beauty. In fact, the bigger the plate, the more desirable a woman might be considered for marriage.
While it might seem a bit strange to outsiders, these lip plates are symbols of pride and identity for the Mursi and Surma tribes. This practice is not limited to the women in the tribes.
#2. Bull Jumping Ceremony in Ethiopia
In the Hamar tribe, the bull-jumping ceremony is a rite of passage for young men. A young man has to leap over a line of four bulls, sometimes more, without falling. When he successfully jumps over the bulls, this will signify that he has transitioned from being a boy to becoming a man and is ready to get married. Before the jump, which is done unclothed, there are several rituals that include dancing and singing performed by the women of the tribe. This ceremony not only tests a young man’s strength and skill but also helps to bring the community closer together.
#3. Fattening Rooms for Brides in Nigeria
In some Nigerian cultures, particularly among the Efik people, young women are sent to fattening rooms before marriage. During this period, which can last several months, the women are fed nutrient-rich foods to gain weight. This tradition stems from the belief that a fuller figure represents beauty, fertility, and prosperity.
The fattening room is also a place where women are taught about marital duties, child-rearing, and other aspects of womanhood. It is said to be a holistic preparation for their future roles in society.
#4. Whipping Ceremony Among the Hamar and Fulani Tribes
Another tradition of the Hamar tribe is the whipping ceremony, which occurs alongside the bull-jumping rite. Women who are close to the young man undergoing the rite voluntarily receive lashes from the men. These scars are somehow seen as a testament to their love and support.
In the Fulani culture, they practice what is called Sharo, which is an important step for a groom before getting married. During this ceremony, older members of the community beat the groom as a way to see if he is strong enough to handle the challenges of marriage. If he can withstand the pain from the beating, it shows that he is ready to take on the responsibilities that come with being a husband. However, if he cannot handle it, the wedding will be canceled, and the dowry that was given will not be returned.
#5. Malawi’s Chewa Tribe Festival of the Dead
This next one would be at the very top of my list if I were actually going by rank. It is one of Africa’s bizarre cultures that most people are still trying to wrap their heads around. In Malawi’s Chewa tribe, a solemn and rather eerie ritual occurs during burials. It is said that after a deceased’s body is first washed, it will be taken to a special location for further cleansing or purification. This involves cutting the throat and flushing water through the body until it runs clear. The water, once “purified,” is then used to prepare a communal meal for the tribe. Like I said, top of my list.
#6. Wodaabe Tribe’s Annual Wife-Stealing Festival
The Wodaabe tribe in Niger has a fun tradition called the Gerewol Festival where men try to “steal” each other’s wives. This isn’t about cheating though; instead, it’s a playful way to show interest and build social status. In their culture, marriages are often arranged by parents when kids are young, usually between cousins. During the festival, men wear colorful outfits and paint their faces to attract attention and dance to impress women.
If a man manages to take a woman away from her husband without being noticed, he gains respect in the community.
#7. The Maasai Spit Greeting
In Kenya and Tanzania, the Maasai tribe has a way of greeting that is quite different from what many are used to. Instead of saying “hello,” Maasai people greet each other by spitting, which shows respect. For instance, when a boy meets someone who’s older, he will spit into his hand before shaking hands. From an outsider’s perspective, this gesture may be seen as rude but it’s not. Interestingly, this spitting custom also takes place with newborns; a person may refer to a baby as bad after spitting on the infant to protect them from harm or evil spirits. Spitting is also used for blessings. After a wedding, a father may bless his daughter by spitting on her forehead.
So tell me, which of these Africa’s bizarre cultures do you think is the mildest? Let me know in the comments section below.
