Taita people

However, evidence suggests that migration occurred interchangeably throughout the history of these groups, and the Taita people should be considered part of the larger population inhabiting the Kilimanjaro Corridor.

The Saghalla people speak Kisaghala, which is closely related to Kigiriama or Mijikenda, a language spoken by nine tribes.

Traditionally, the Taita tribe consisted of lineages or clans (vichuku, singular kichuku), each occupying a specific territorial area in the hills.

[4] These lineages were independent political units, and before colonialism, there was no concept of a unified Taita tribe.

[5] While there were shared cultural traits among the Saghalla, Kasighau, and Dawida, such as "burials" of skulls in caves and rock shelters, there were slight variations.

Mwangeka, Joseph Mwambi a legendary figure for the Taitas, resisted the British colonists from encroaching on the lands of the Wataita.

The Dawidas encompass several dialects, including Wusi, Kidaya, Mghange, Chawia, Mwanda, Kishamba, Werugha, Wumingu, and Wundanyi.

The caves also provided security and shelter, serving as isolation wards for individuals afflicted with contagious diseases.

The negotiation process (known as "Wupe") involved the bride's father and maternal uncles making important decisions, often focusing on the dowry payment, which typically consisted of livestock.