Why This African Tribe Prefers Walking On 10-foot-high Sticks

Suppose walking on 10-foot-high sticks or stilts becomes a part of your daily routine, would you be able to adjust to it? This idea will feel impractical to many but Banna Tribe in Ethiopia has become quite used to it. A video recently surfaced on X, has brought attention to this unique tradition. The video shows some teenagers from the Banna tribe easily crossing the seemingly tough terrains with the help of sticks. Doing this may seem highly impossible for a major section of people, but the Banna tribe people can do it with perfection. “Precautions taken by the Banna Tribe to protect themselves from poisonous snakes”, the caption of the video reads. The caption signifies one of the major reasons why the people of this tribe prefer walking on sticks rather than on foot.

As per the Tales of Africa website, there are many other reasons why people of this tribe have preferred walking on sticks. The website states that their stilt-walking tradition dates back centuries and is deeply intertwined with their cultural identity. Stilt walking among the Banna people has historical origins, both practically and spiritually.

Practically, stilt walking helped the tribe to cross the marshy landscapes of their region with ease. It enabled them to cross rivers, traverse muddy terrain, and protect themselves from potential dangers from wild animals and venomous snakes.

It requires many years of dedication, practice and physical strength to become a stiltwalker in the Banna tribe. The stiltwalkers, known as Tewa, build their stilts using sturdy wooden poles, ropes and leather straps. Balancing themselves properly is the key to stilt walking, and the Banna tribe has mastered it to an incredible degree. With every step, the Tewa showcases exceptional poise and control. As seen in the video, their body movements are effortless as they travel in their surroundings.

Not only walking, the tribe has brought their exceptional balance to dance-like movements as well such as high kicks, jumps, and spins as well. This adds an artistic flair to their performances. The tribe people also wear bells and ankles as they walk on the stilts.