Part 1
The word Mto wa Mbu literally means “Mosquito River“. We visited here on our return to Arusha. Leaving the lands that are plagued by drought behind, Mosquito River looks like a desert. Not so however, as this area gets its name from the large number of mosquitos that breed here and sadly the resulting deaths from malaria. There is hope however as people are given access to mosquito nets and taught how to use them. Its encouraging to learn that new mothers are given nets by the clinics they visit before their babies are born. This why we donate to protect them.
There are 120 different tribes living here in this small area. They’ve arrived for various reasons, some from countries that are war torn, while others arrive seeking land as cities swallow their small farms. Its an education to us, as we had no idea there were this many tribes in existence in Africa.,
For the most part ,it seems, the people are self sufficient, raising crops, animals for food and building their modest homes from mud and straw. When a drought comes however, as it does now, their harmony changes. Food is short for themselves and their animals. Many starve and the poverty they face each day worsens. We see aid arriving in the form of maize, all very well organized. Village leaders check the recipients name off a list. No grabbing or pushing here.
Our guide’s name is Sunday. He explains that he is named for the day he was born. He’s very knowledgeable and speaks good English.. He tells us he was sponsored by an Italian couple as a child and has had 15 years of education. Sunday is from the Tatoga Tribe. His tribe lives a solitary life, in a very old and traditional way. They speak only in clicks. Women are very subservient to men, kneeling to present food or just to speak.
Amazing insight, eastern trekker. Your writing portrays a love and empathy for the purity of people in Mosquito River.
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Thanks 😊 Tapyellus.
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It was quite an experience visiting there. These children in poverty lived their life and were happy together.
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It is a very interesting article and a real chance to have been able to visit these populations. I am happy to see that they are able to keep their dignity thanks to well organized help. Thanks for sharing your experience.
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The name of this river sounds terrifying. I would love to travel to this area of the world someday. I’ll make sure to pack some insect repellent!
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Yes is a great adventure…and take a bug jacket 😀
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Amazing, looks like an absolutely incredible country! 🙂
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Thanks Han. It is an amazing adventure.
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So interesting and your photos are terrific! Such a different way of life than ours and I like to hear about different cultures
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It is an interesting place to travel…Thank you.
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The cultures of other people (and especially tribes in Africa) are sometimes incomprehensible for us westerns, but it is most of the time the only way they’ve known all of their lives. I’m glad they are taught about the advantages of mosquito nets … your photo’s portrayed a genuineness about the people, thank you for that 👍🏻.
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Yes a very unusual part of our world. I feel so sad for the children dealing with the hardship.
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Oh, no. I hope women have better fate in other tribes.
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Yes hoping they can move to a different tribe..but that is their world.
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Beautiful people with beautiful stories. Keep updating…I want to know. Enjoy your journey.👍
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These people are very friendly and live in a tragic area in a happy way.
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Tanzania is becoming very popular! It looks amazing thanks for sharing !
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It is a fascinating place to visit.
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