Kotoko people

The **Kotoko people** — also known as **Mser**, **Moria**, **Bara**, or **Makari** — are a **Chadic ethnic group** inhabiting parts of **northern Cameroon**, **southwestern Chad**, and **northeastern Nigeria**. They are historically and culturally significant for their connections to ancient civilizations and their enduring presence in the Lake Chad region.

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## Population and Language

The **Kotoko population** is estimated at approximately **90,000 people**, with the **majority residing in Cameroon**. Their native languages belong to the **Mandage group** of the **Chadic branch** of the Afroasiatic language family, with **Lagwan** being the most widely spoken among them.

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## History

The Kotoko are believed to be **descendants of the Sao civilization**, an ancient and sophisticated society that once flourished around **Lake Chad**. Around **1500 CE**, the Kotoko established the **Kotoko Kingdom**, a polity that maintained influence in the region and developed connections with the **Bornu Empire**. These interactions played a role in their religious and cultural transformation.

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## Culture and Economy

The Kotoko are traditionally known for:

- **Fishing**: Using long, narrow canoes, they catch fish in local rivers and lakes. The catch is often **smoked or sun-dried** and sold in local markets.
- **Agriculture**: They cultivate crops suited to the Sahelian climate.
- **Cattle Rearing**: Among wealthier families, **livestock raising** is also practiced as a sign of wealth and social status.

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## Religion

Most Kotoko people are **Sunni Muslims**. The **Islamization** of the Kotoko occurred in **phases**, beginning in the **16th century** but reaching wider segments of the population by the **18th century**. Their conversion was largely influenced by **Muslim traders and clerics from the Bornu Empire**. Despite adopting Islam, many **traditional religious practices** and **beliefs** continue to **coexist** with Islamic practices, reflecting a **syncretic religious culture**.

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## See Also

- **Sao Civilization**
- **Bornu Empire**
- **Ethnic Groups of the Lake Chad Basin**

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## External Links

- <a href="/wiki/The%20Secret%20Of%20The%20Putchu%20Guinadji/">The Secret Of The Putchu Guinadji</a>(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIrMtF6ZFeE)

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