Discover Temne

Temne is spoken by over 2 million people, primarily in northern Sierra Leone, especially in areas like Port Loko, Bombali, Tonkolili, and Kambia districts. It belongs to the Mel branch of the Niger-Congo language family and is one of Sierra Leone's major indigenous languages.

Main Communities

  • Makeni (Bombali District)
  • Port Loko (Port Loko District)
  • Lunsar (Tonkolili District)

Common Temne Names and Meanings:

  • Sankoh - strong
  • Boineh - happy

Staple Food

Rice with Cassava Leaves or Groundnut Soup: Rice is the main staple food of the Temne people. It is often eaten with rich, flavorful soups like cassava leaf stew, okra, or groundnut (peanut) soup, usually cooked with palm oil, fish, or meat. Meals are often shared communally, showing hospitality and togetherness.

Culture and Traditions

  • Poro Society: is a traditional male initiation group among the Temne, where young boys learn about adulthood, bravery, and community values. It also plays an important role in local governance and cultural preservation. The Bondo society serves a similar role for girls and women.

  • Temne Dance and Drumming: Temne people are known for their energetic drumming and expressive dance traditions, performed during festivals, weddings, and initiation rites. These dances often tell stories, honor ancestors, or celebrate community milestones, using rhythm and movement to pass down cultural values.

Notable figures:

  • Haja Zainab Hawa Bangura: A prominent politician and advocate for human rights, she has held several high-ranking positions in the Sierra Leone government and the United Nations.

  • Isha Sesay: An award-winning journalist, she gained international recognition as a CNN anchor.

  • Bai Bureh: A Temne chief who led a significant uprising against British colonial rule in 1898.
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