How Many Tribes Are in the Ivory Coast?

Ivory Coast is home to more than 60 distinct ethnic groups, making it one of the most ethnically diverse countries in West Africa. These ethnic groups are commonly classified into four major ethnolinguistic families, based on culture, language, and geographic location.

These 60+ groups are typically organized into four principal divisions:

Akan
The largest ethnolinguistic group, accounting for roughly 40% of the population.
Major tribes: Baoulé (the largest single tribe in the country), Agni, and Abron. Notably, the Baoulé are the single largest ethnic group, comprising approximately 23% of the population
Characteristics: Historically known for their centralized kingdoms and gold craftsmanship.

Gur (formerly referred to as Voltaic)
They make up about 17.5% of the population.
Major tribes: Senufo (famous for their woodcarving and "Poro" initiation rites) and Lobi.
Characteristics: Primarily agricultural societies with deep-rooted traditional spiritual practices.

Krou
Making up about 11% of the population.
Major tribes: Bété, Wê (Guéré/Wobé), and Dida.
Characteristics: Historically forest-dwelling groups known for their vibrant mask-making traditions and egalitarian social structures.

Mandé
Found mainly in the north and northwest. Mandé is divided into:
Mandé groups collectively account for roughly one-quarter of the population and are often divided into Northern Mandé (such as Malinké and Dioula) and Southern Mandé (including Dan and Guro).
Characteristics: Traditionally, traders and long-distance merchants; Northern Mandé groups are predominantly Muslim, while Southern Mandé communities often follow traditional beliefs or Christianity.

Why does Ivory Coast have so many tribes?

Ivory Coast’s location in West Africa made it a crossroads for migration, trade, and cultural exchange, resulting in exceptional ethnic and cultural diversity.

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