Describe the socio-economic organization of Iteso during the early 19th century.

The Iteso (or people of Teso) are a Nilotic ethnic group in eastern Uganda and western Kenya. Teso refers to the traditional homeland of the Iteso, and Ateso is their language. They are believed to have come from South Ethiopia or Sudan but first settled in Karamoja.

The social organization of the Iteso people is fascinating and rich in tradition.

• Clan System: The Iteso are organized into clans, known as “etelem.” Each clan is made up of extended family members who trace their lineage to a common ancestor. Clans play a significant role in social identity and inheritance.
• Patriarchy: Iteso society is patriarchal, meaning that family lineage and inheritance are traced through the male line. The eldest male in the family typically holds significant authority.
• Marriage and Family: Marriage is an important institution among the Iteso. Traditionally, marriages are arranged, and bride price, known as “eboni,” is given by the groom’s family to the bride’s family. Polygamy is practiced, but monogamy is also common.
• Age Sets and Initiation: Young Iteso boys and girls undergo initiation rites as a rite of passage into adulthood. These ceremonies are important for social integration and the transmission of cultural values and knowledge.
• Elders’ Role: Elders hold a respected position within the community. They are responsible for resolving disputes, making important decisions, and preserving cultural traditions.
• Community Leadership: Leadership within the Iteso community is typically vested in the hands of elders and clan leaders. They oversee various aspects of communal life, including rituals, land management, and conflict resolution.
• Religion: Traditionally the Iteso worship of spirits and ancestors. They believe in a supreme deity, often referred to as “Akuj,” who is considered the creator and sustainer of life. They carried ceremonies and offered sacrifices to appease these gods.
• Standing army: Iteso lacked a standing army. In times of war or raiding activities, the Iteso would mobilize warriors from different clans. These warriors were trained and led by experienced elders who acted as military leaders. The warriors would then engage in battles or raids and return to their normal lives once the conflict was over.
• Education: Education was largely oral, with knowledge passed down from generation to generation through storytelling, songs, and proverbs. Elders played a crucial role in teaching younger members about cultural values, history, and social norms. Practical skills such as farming, animal husbandry, and craftsmanship were taught from a young age. Boys learned how to hunt, herd cattle, and engage in agricultural activities, while girls were taught domestic skills like cooking, weaving, and child-rearing. As part of their education, young Iteso boys and girls underwent initiation rites that included learning about their responsibilities as adults, social etiquette, and community values. These rites were crucial for social integration and the transmission of cultural knowledge.

Economic organization of Iteso by 19^th century

By the 19th century, the economic organization of the Iteso people was primarily based on a combination of pastoralism and agriculture.

• Pastoralism: The Iteso were traditionally pastoralists, keeping cattle, goats, and sheep. Cattle were particularly important, not only as a source of food but also as a measure of wealth and social status. Cattle raiding were also a common practice, both for economic gain and as a means of conflict resolution.
• Agriculture: Over time, the Iteso adopted agriculture alongside their pastoral lifestyle. They cultivated crops such as millet, sorghum, and groundnuts. Farming provided a stable food source and complemented their pastoral activities.
• Hunting and Gathering: Hunting was another important economic activity. The Iteso hunted wild animals for meat and gathered wild fruits and other edible plants. This activity promoted unity and socialization within the community.
• Fishing: They engaged in fishing from surrounding water bodies like L. Bisinia from which fish and other aquatic life were obtained to supplement their diet.
• Trade: The Iteso engaged in trade with neighboring communities. They exchanged hides, skins, and ivory for goods such as backcloth, beads, and iron implement from regions like Bunyoro and Busoga.
• Community Cooperation: Economic activities were often communal, with members of the community working together to ensure the well-being of the group. This cooperation was essential for survival and prosperity.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science