The Matriarchal Society of the Bisago People: Preserving Ancestral Culture and Traditions

💪The Bisago people have preserved their matriarchal society, where women have significant power and influence.

🏝️The Bisagos Islands are home to sacred places, iranis (statues), and balobas (sacred sites).

🌳The economy of the Bisago people is based on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and the exploitation of palm trees for oil and wine.

🌍The Bisago people have successfully lived in harmony with nature, taking only what they need and preserving the islands' resources.

👩‍💼Women play a vital role in the economy and decision-making within the Bisago society.

What is the religious belief of the Bisago people?

—The Bisago people adhere to an animist religion, believing in the existence of a Supreme Being, Nindo, and the orabok, the universal force connecting all living creatures.

What is the significance of iranis in Bisago culture?

—Iranis are statues or objects housing the spirits of gods and ancestors. They are considered sacred and hold great importance in Bisago spiritual practices.

What are the main economic activities of the Bisago people?

—The Bisago people rely on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and the exploitation of palm trees for oil and wine. They also cultivate cashew nuts and peanuts for sale.

How do women contribute to the Bisago society?

—Women play a vital role in the Bisago society. They run the economy, make important decisions, and have significant power and influence.

How do the Bisago people maintain their relationship with nature?

—The Bisago people practice sustainable agriculture, taking only what they need. They have successfully preserved the islands' resources and live in harmony with nature.

00:15The Bisago people have preserved their matriarchal society for centuries, where women have significant power and influence.

07:13The Bisagos Islands are home to sacred places, iranis (statues), and balobas (sacred sites).

15:02The economy of the Bisago people is based on agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, and the exploitation of palm trees for oil and wine.

19:25The women play a vital role in the economy and decision-making within the Bisago society.

12:59The Bisago people have successfully lived in harmony with nature, taking only what they need and preserving the islands' resources.