The Archaeology of Kifumangao Site: Rufiji Tanzania

Abstract

This paper is a report on recent archaeological research conducted in Kifumangao village in July 2009. Kifumangao is found in Mkuranga District, between Kisiju and Rufiji Delta along the coast of Tanzania. (Fg. 1). This is one of historical towns reported by German sources to have collapsed in the beginning of 20^th century (Gwassa, 1969). Other towns include Mkwaja, Winde, Mbweni, Mbwamaji, Kisiju, Nyamisati and Msindaji. The aim of the research was to investigate the settlement of pre- German period at Kifumangao area. Previous archaeological researches in the coast of Tanzania have concentrated on early periods. The results of surveys and excavations reveal that Kifumangao is a post Portuguese site and suggest contact with European world probably through trade.