United Republic of Tanzania

Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
Tanzania Cultural Heritage Management System
Documentation • Preservation • Promotion

Chagga

Wachagga

Highland Bantu Population: 2,000,000

About the Chagga

The Chagga (Wachagga) are a Bantu ethnic group from Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. They are the third largest ethnic group in Tanzania. They traditionally live on the southern and eastern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

History & Origins

The Chagga have a rich history of centralized chiefdoms (known as "mtemi") that developed on the slopes of Kilimanjaro. They were early adopters of coffee cultivation and participated in long-distance trade routes. German missionaries documented their customs in the late 19th century.

Also Known As
Dschagga Wachagga
Languages
Language Status Speakers
Kichagga Active 2,000,000
Kihai Active 300,000
Kimachame Active 250,000
Kirombo Active 200,000
Kivunjo Active 250,000
Ceremonies & Festivals
Chagga Coffee Festival

Harvest season
Annual celebration of coffee harvest with traditional ceremonies.

Arts & Crafts
Chagga Wood Carving

Sculpture
Wooden carvings including figures, masks, and household items.

Geographic Distribution
  • Dodoma
  • Dodoma
  • Dodoma
Quick Facts
  • 5 languages/dialects
  • 0 cultural practices
  • 1 ceremonies
  • 1 arts & crafts
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