One of the Strangest African Tribes: The Vadoma of Zimbabwe

The Vadoma are the only native hunter-gatherer tribe in Zimbabwe, and they live in the Zambezi Valley close to the Mwazamutanda River. They are also called Doma or Dema. Like many small and remote tribes, the Vadoma people of Zimbabwe have historically faced a limited gene pool as a result of their cultural customs and relative isolation.

Endogamy in a Cultural and Genetic Context

The Vadoma customarily engage in endogamy, which is marriage within their tribe or community. This cultural practice helps maintain group identity but can limit genetic diversity.

Such practices are common in small or isolated populations worldwide.

Genetic Implications

Due to the small population of the community, the genetic disorder ectrodactyly is more widespread because of the higher possibility of both parents possessing the gene. 

This is a product of a limited gene pool spanning many generations rather than necessary direct familial ties.

Respect for Cultural Practices

The term "incest" carries great cultural and moral judgment. It is more accurate to understand the Vadoma's genetic traits as a result of isolation and endogamy rather than a deliberate practice of closely related individuals marrying (e.g., siblings or parent-child).

Cultural Stigma

It is important to distinguish between cultural practices and taboos. Although endogamy is part of their tradition, the idea of "incest" as defined by closely related individuals marrying (e.g., siblings) is not a cultural norm in the Vadoma community.

Historical angle

Due to their historical resistance to being incorporated into the Korekore Shona kingdom of Mutapa, the vaDoma had restricted access to fertile territory. In order to avoid predators, many VaDoma now lead settled lives as semi-foragers, erecting homes on wooden platforms. In their community, they are not regarded as impaired despite their distinctive traits.