Trying the Sails from the Lamu Archipelago to the Arabian Gulf: The ‘death’ of Mtepe and Subsequent Rise of Jahazi

Abstract

Matondoni[1] village in the Lamu archipelago[2] is known for its jahazi (dhow) building tradition. The Swahili used to build dhows without using nails. Such dhows, were known as mtepe (pl. mitepe). This article traces why mtepe became extinct and discusses jahazi building traditions, beliefs, dances and sacrifices in Matondoni village. These include jahazi launch feast, sewing and trying the sail and the role of the women’s vugo[3] dance. In addition, it investigates Swahili navigation and astronomy, from the Lamu archipelago to Arabia. The article establishes that jahazi became more popular than mtepe due to the need for a stronger vessel to promote the emerging maritime economy. The article finds that jahazi did not immediately replace mtepe, but the two coexisted until jahazi became the vessel of choice, which stopped the production of mtepe.

http://doi.org/10.56279/jk.v86i1.6

[1] The village of Matondoni is located northwest of Lamu island. It is a peaceful fishing village and well known for dhow building. In addition, it is associated with the popular Swahili male dance known as “chama”.

[2] I limit the description of the Lamu archipelago to Lamu, Pate and Siyu. We have smaller islands, including Ndau and Kiwayuu. All these islands lie close to the Kenyan mainland. To the east, the archipelago borders the Indian Ocean and to the Southwest, it borders the Tana River County.

[3] Vugo is a tradition of women. It is a celebratory dance, often performed at weddings, but also during other key events in Swahili society. It is often performed by Lamu Bajuni women.