Peoples · West Africa

Yoruba

The Yoruba are known for their active role in religion, politics and culture. Learn more about their traditions, crafts and society.

Redaktion Afriwhere 1 min read updated 14 September 2026
Yoruba
Yoruba.

Culture

The Yoruba people are among the most active in the fields of African religion, politics and African culture. The land of the Yoruba, divided into several kingdoms, has withstood all changes of a political nature without harm. Each kingdom has an Oba at its head, whose residence is in the capital and who is advised by his Chiefs.

The Yoruba are very supportive and helpful towards each other. This creates a certain mutual dependence that guarantees a secure position within the community.

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Craftsmanship

The Yoruba people are known beyond their borders for their craftsmanship. They produce popular art objects from terracotta and bronze. The tradition of bronze figures dates back centuries.
The traditional clothing of the Yoruba is easily recognizable by their intricately embroidered, flowing, knee-length robes worn over trousers. The Yoruba mainly earn their living by growing cocoa, the most important export of the region. But they also secure their income through cross-border trading activities.

 

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