THIS IS HOW TIV PEOPLE ATE IN THE EARLY DAYS (Kyegh Sha Shwa Carnival)

The Tiv tribe is the fourth largest tribe in Nigeria, they have a reputation for superb Agricultural production. They are primarily Farmers and take deep pride in their culture and of cause their traditional attire (Black and White), The Tiv people are primarily from the middle belt of Nigeria with a very large portion of them staying in Benue State, a good number of tiv people can also be found in Nasarawa and Taraba state. It is worthy of note that the Tiv Language is also widely spoken in Abuja, Jos and Kaduna, Nigeria

Tiv men are generally known to be very faithful husbands and so are their wives who have a reputation of being very homely, a tiv woman will serve you a plate of fufu and attach over five okates of soup. The Tiv man has a very intense sense of self pride and would do anything to avoid situations of disrespect.

In recent times, due to the speedy encroachment of western knowledge in Africa, Africans are quickly forgetting their traditional practices and embracing western concepts. A perfect example is dress codes, eating habits and general life style. Meetings like Kyeh Sha Shwa Carnival are precautions being taken by a few Tiv people to help keep some basics in check, this is why
a group of proud Tiv People led by a catholic priest Rev. Father Solomon Mfa Ukeyima decided to set up this annual carnival they call. The primary activity here is food consumption while it is also a perfect avenue to discuss very important issues affecting the entire tiv tribe. Below is a picture showing over five people eating from one plate

I was previledged to attend this years edition of the Food centered carnival, Elder Statesmen like Wantergh Paul Unongo graced the occasion, he made the high point of the occasion when he gave his words of advice to the teaming population in attendance, other high points of the occassion were the Uka-Uka Competition and of cause palm wine drinking competition. i was able to take a few pictures and i thought it wise to share.

Fr. Solomon During The Opening Remarks

Wantaregh Paul Unongo and Rev. Fr. Solomon Mfa

We drank fro the calabash this time

Uka Uka Competition 

This is how the meals were served