The Tsonga people, broadly speaking, are a diverse Bantu ethnic group found mainly in Southern Mozambique and parts of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Swaziland. Here's a brief overview based on the terms you've shared:
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Vatsonga: This is a general term for the Tsonga people. They are one of the main Bantu groups in southern Africa, particularly prevalent in southern Mozambique and Limpopo Province in South Africa.
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Vahlanganu: This is a Tsonga clan found primarily in southern Mozambique and parts of Zimbabwe. They have a distinct lineage and cultural traditions.
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Vateni: A smaller subgroup of the Tsonga, they mainly inhabit regions of Zimbabwe.
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Vankwena: This Tsonga subgroup resides in both southern Mozambique and areas of Zimbabwe. Like all clans or subgroups, they have their unique traditions and practices.
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Vahavavo: Located mainly along the Limpopo River in Zimbabwe, this clan has a history intertwined with the ebb and flow of migrations in the region.
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Van'walavu: Found near Giyani in South Africa, this Tsonga tribe has a distinct presence in the region, with specific cultural and social practices.
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Vaxika: Mainly inhabiting areas in South Africa's Limpopo Province, the Vaxika have contributed to the rich cultural mosaic of the Tsonga people.
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Hlanganu: This major Tsonga group is settled primarily on the border between Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Their location has led to a mix of cultural influences from both countries.
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Nkuna: As previously mentioned, the Nkuna are primarily located near places like Giyani and Phalaborwa in South Africa. They play a significant role in the broader Tsonga community's socio-cultural landscape.
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Mbedzi: This smaller Tsonga tribe is primarily located in southern parts of Zimbabwe. Their unique history and traditions contribute to the diverse tapestry of the Tsonga heritage.
Each of these groups, while sharing a broader Tsonga identity, has its own set of traditions, folklore, and practices that make them unique. The complexity of their histories and interrelationships showcases the rich cultural tapestry of southern Africa.