Lengola

The Lengola of Congo (Kinshasa) live on the left bank of the Zaire River.  Several ethnicities are also found in this region – Mbole, the Yela, and the Metoko.  They are part of the Bantu, Central-Congo people cluster within the Sub-Saharan African affinity bloc. Their primary language is Lengola. They make their living from banana farming and hunting. While their primary religion is Roman Catholicism, the Butoka society regulates their social, political, and economic activities.  The Lengola produce large statues “Butoka,” that have apotropaic functions (magic that wards off evil misfortune) and ensures social stability.  Their masks are somewhat influenced by Lega style.

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