Page:Africa by Élisée Reclus, Volume 3.djvu/549

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U-NYAMEZI.
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domain is that of the Vua-Hha, which extends from the Lower Malagarazi to the uplands where the Alexandra Nile (Kagera) has its rise. These warlike shepherds are distinguished alike for their fine physique, intelligent expression, and artistic taste. They make an excellent butter, which does not become rancid like that of the other pastoral tribes of the plateau, and which is exported to the remotest parts of U-Nyamezi. Their Vua-Tuzi neighbours, said to be intruders Fig. 227. — Tabora and Gonda. from the north and akin to the Wa-Huma of Lake Nyanza, are noted for their tall stature, regular features, and light complexion. They are regarded by some authorities as of Galla stock, while others affiliate them to the Vua-Hha. Like the Nuers of the White Nile, they have the faculty of standing for hours together on one leg, after the fashion of wading birds. At present the Vua-Tuzi are employed by the Tabora Arabs to tend their flocks, receiving half the produce in return.

The Lower Malagarazi Valley is occupied by the U-Vinza and U-Karaga countries, the former of which is famous for its salt-pens, which supply the whole region from the southern shores of Tanganyika to the Upper Congo and Lake Victoria. The great market for this salt, as well as for ivory, slaves, and merchandise imported from Zanzibar and Europe, is the port of Kahwele (Kavele), better known by the name of Ujiji, which is properly that of the district. But this famous place, which at one time gave its name to Lake Tanganyika itself, is a mere group of hamlets situated on the south side of a peninsula, whence a superb view is commanded of the surrounding coast, with its red cliffs, wooded slopes, and palm-groves. Ujiji, which is the residence of the muntuali, or "triumvirs," who administer the district, is an unhealthy place that has proved fatal to many Europeans.