Tetela

The Batetela (plural of Tetela), of Bantu origin, are implanted in the province of eastern Kasaï. The people Tetela is rooted in very remote times, starting with the desertification of the Sahara, that is to say 500 and 2500 years B.C. when there were different migrations to different places. In the century XVII their ancestors went down the rainforest eastwards along the mountains and Lake Tanganika until they reached Lake Kissale in Katanga. Power in the villages is exercised by the elder of the oldest lineage. Its prestige does not depend on any ritual power but on its generosity and good doing. The generosity of the boss is paramount to the Tetela. The heads of lineage wear on their back the leopard skin with which they have been enthroned, the other leaders and warriors wear a necklace with teeth of said animal. Soothsayers and healers belong to the same association as blacksmiths. In the Batetela culture, premarital sex is allowed, it is enough for the groom to offer a dowry to the bride's parents, marriage is simply a phase that culminates the process. But once married, the husband is permanently indebted to his father-in-law and his brothers-in-law. Very fond of music, they are currently known for their musical production, the town has excellent musicians and guitarists.