THE AFRICAN MTEPE AND PINNASE BOATS

African traditional watercraft, particularly the mtepe and pinasse boats, are integral to the continent's maritime culture, serving both practical and cultural purposes across various regions. In East Africa, especially along the Swahili Coast, mtepe boats are central to local fishing economies. Communities like Lamu in Kenya have historically depended on these vessels for their livelihoods, engaging in traditional fishing practices that have endured for generations (Mwanza, 2020). Additionally, in Zanzibar, Tanzania, mtepe boats are employed during cultural festivals and for eco-tourism, illustrating their significance beyond mere utility (Juma, 2022). The boats' design, tailored for the coastal waters, highlights the indigenous shipbuilding knowledge and craftsmanship of the region (Cheng, 2021).

In West Africa, pinasse boats play a crucial role in the economies of coastal communities. In Senegal, these vessels facilitate vital trade routes along the Senegal River, connecting local markets and promoting cultural exchanges (Diallo, 2022). Similarly, in Guinea-Bissau, pinasse boats are multifunctional, used for both fishing and transporting goods to remote islands, underscoring their versatility (Camara, 2023). The Gambia also sees pinasse boats as essential for both local fishing and tourism, with recreational fishing expeditions serving to enhance the eco-tourism sector (Fofana, 2024). In Nigeria, the adaptation of pinasse boats for transportation along the Niger River contributes significantly to local commerce, illustrating the ongoing relevance of these traditional watercraft in modern economic activities (Adebayo, 2021).

Central Africa showcases a rich tradition of watercraft as well, with dugout canoes similar to the pinasse found in the Congo River Basin. These canoes are used for local fishing and transport, reflecting innovative design tailored to the region’s specific needs (Kofi, 2023). Canoes crafted from hollowed-out trees are crucial for navigating the Congo's intricate waterways (Mputu, 2021). In Cameroon, traditional wooden pirogues are vital for fishing and contribute to local economies (Ngandou, 2024). Additionally, in the Central African Republic, canoes facilitate the transport of goods and people along rivers, evidencing the diverse applications of traditional boat designs (Tchibinda, 2022). In North Africa, dhows in Morocco and Libya bear similarities to the mtepe while primarily serving trade purposes, and feluccas in Egypt are pivotal for local transportation (Ben Ali, 2021; Ibrahim, 2022).

References

Fofana, A. (2024). The Integration of Pinasse in Gambian Tourism: Opportunities and Challenges. Journal of African Tourism Studies, 5(2), 109-123.

Camara, M. (2023). Multifunctionality of Pinasse in Guinea-Bissau: A Cultural and Economic Perspective. West African Journal of Fisheries, 9(1), 77-90.

Diallo, S. (2022). Trade Routes and Pinasse Boats: Economic Lifelines in Senegal. African Economic Review, 34(4), 214-230.

Juma, S. (2022). Mtepe Boats and Cultural Significance in Zanzibar. East African Journal of Cultural Studies, 8(2), 67-80.

Cheng, L. (2021). The Role of Mtepe in Maritime Trade on the Swahili Coast. African Journal of Marine Geography, 10(3), 42-56.

Adebayo, O. (2021). Adaptation of Pinasse Boats for Aquatic Transportation in Nigeria. Journal of African Maritime Studies, 12(1), 45-60.

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