ABSTRACT
One of the values most constantly stressed by the Nyakyusa is that of ukwangala which, in its primary sense, means ‘the enjoyment of good company’ and, by extension, the mutual aid and sympathy which spring from personal friendship. It implies urbane manners and a friendliness which expresses itself in eating and drinking together; not only merry conversation, but also discussion between equals, which the Nyakyusa regard as the principal form of education. ‘It is by conversing with our friends’, said one of our witnesses, ‘that we gain wisdom (amahala); it is bad to sit quite still in men’s company. A man who does this is a fool; he learns no wisdom, he has only his own thoughts. Moreover, a man who does not spend time with other people is always dirty, he does not compare himself with any friends. For we learn cleanliness of body in company, those who are dirty learning from their more cleanly friends. Again, if a man is accused of some crime and brought before the chief and is unable to defend himself easily and with eloquence we mock at him and say: “What is the matter with you? Do you live all by yourself? How is it that you are so foolish?” Wisdom and cleanliness are the two great things to be learnt in company. It is bad to live alone far from other people, such a man learns nothing: he never learns to express himself well, to converse wittily with friends, or to argue a case with eloquence. It is better to live with other people.’
