The Yao are a predominantly Muslim people group of about 2 million spread over three countries, Malawi, northern Mozambique, and in Ruvuma Region and Mtwara Region of Tanzania people, have numerous dances to enhance celebrations throughout the calendar year. The dances are often segregated based on gender. The majority of dances fall around the initiation times for boys and girls while others are seen during religious festivals such as the syala.
Types of Yao dances.
Amalilo.
The Amalilo is a large group dance involving both men and women usually seen during the end of unyago (initiation) periods.
Beni.
The Beni is a popular dance involving men of all ages in which the dancers dress up like soldiers in homemade uniforms.
Chamba.
The Chamba is a secretive dance held during the second phase of msondo in which only women or girls who have gone through initiation can be present. Lessons are taught on hygiene, childrearing and more during these dances.
Chisakasa.
This dance is only for women and is related to the birth of a woman's first child. It is usually an all-night affair.
Likwata.
The Likwata is a celebratory dance in which only old women are involved.
Lyogo.
The Lyogo is a dance seen during the time in which boys and girls are entering the unyago (initiation) camps.
Chiwoda.
The Chiwoda is an older women's dance often seen during public events.
Makwayela.
The Makwayela is a public dance performed by women of all ages.
Manganje.
The Manganje is a sexual group dance held late at night. Can involve sexual intercourse.
Manawa.
The Manawa is a girl's dance performed during nsondo (initiation).
Masewe.
The Masewe is a dance performed by younger men during the time of unyago (initiation).
Mawulidi.
The Mawulidi is a celebratory dance held by female family members of a woman who has just had a child after a long time in which no children have been born to her. The baby is passed around from woman to woman during the dance.
Msondo.
The Msondo is a dance for women only performed during times of girl's initiation. Considered by some to be quite immoral.
Sikili.
The Sikili is a religious Muslim dance in which men or women dance during syala events.
Singenge.
The Singenge is a dance performed by young girls during the time of unyago (initiation).
Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe is one of the dances for a large group seen during the end of unyago festivities.