Amaxhosa are one of three nations (Nguni) of South Africa,

Amaxhosa are one of three nations (Nguni) of South Africa,

Amaxhosa are one of three nations (Nguni) of South Africa, settled predominantly in the Eastern Cape. They are well known for the distinctive “click” sounds used in their spoken language (Isixhosa) described in the English language using the letters X, Q, KR and CG.

Traditional Xhosa wear, including beaded jewellery, is renowned for its vibrancy and colour. For generations, Xhosa were referred to as the “red blanket people” due to their custom of wearing blankets dyed with red ochre. The intensity of colour would vary from tribe to tribe.

Clothes and accessories are worn in various ways often symbolising the status of the wearer. Xhosa women historically would wear some form of headdress as a sign of respect to the head of the family (usually their father or husband). Engaged women, as photographed above, would redden their braided hair, allowing it to cover their eyes, as a sign of respect to their betrothed. ~ Afrika Is Kemet