DIOLA / JOLA People

The Diola people (also called Jola or Ajamat) are an ethnic group primarily living in Senegal, The Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau, especially in the Casamance region.
Language. They speak several Jola/Diola languages belonging to the Niger–Congo language family.
Religion. Traditionally they practiced indigenous spiritual beliefs centered on ancestors and sacred forests, though today many are Muslim or Christian.
Lifestyle. Historically known for sophisticated rice farming, especially wet-rice cultivation.
Social structure. Many Diola communities are traditionally egalitarian, with less centralized kingship than neighboring groups.
Culture. They are known for their Mask ceremonies and dances, Wood carving, their trong community traditions and Wrestling and music traditions

Extended info about Diola People