Major Ethnic Groups (Tribes) Of Liberia

SEASON 5, EPISODE 12

The Republic of Liberia’s cultural landscape is one that is captivating and is shaped by the presence of diverse ethnic groups just like other African countries. Each group contributes its unique heritage, traditions, and languages, enriching the nation’s identity.

On today’s episode of Learn Africa, join me on an exciting journey as we delve into the diverse ethnic groups in Liberia.

Kpelle

The largest tribe in Liberia is the Kpelle, part of the Mande ethnolinguistic group, predominantly residing in the central and western regions of the country. They also extend into neighboring West African countries, such as Guinea, where they are recognized as Guerze, and Côte d’Ivoire.

Comprising over 20% of Liberia’s population, the Kpelle people speak the Kpelle language, a significant dialect within the Mande languages.

Bassa

The Bassa tribe, the second-largest in Liberia, constitutes over 13% of the nation’s population. They primarily inhabit the coastal and central regions, including areas like Grand Bassa, Margibi, and Rivercess. While native to Liberia, the Bassa people are also present in other countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Niger, Togo, Senegal, Cameroon, and Congo.

Their language, the Bassa language, is a part of the Kru languages, a major ethnolinguistic group, and serves as the primary tongue for the Bassa people.

Gio

The Gio, also known as Gyo, Dan, or Yacouba, reside in Liberia’s northern regions, adjacent to the Côte d’Ivoire border, where they are recognized as the ‘Dan’ tribe.

Comprising over 8% of Liberia’s population, the Gio speak the Gio language, which includes dialects such as Gweetaawu, Blowo, and Kla.

Mano

The Mano, constituting over 7% of Liberia’s total population, predominantly reside in the northern and northeastern parts of Liberia and parts of Guinea.

Speaking the Mano language, a prominent Mande language, the Mano tribe significantly contributes to Liberia’s ethnic tapestry.

Grebo

The Grebo, a subgroup of the Kru ethnic group, account for approximately 10% of Liberia’s population. They inhabit the southeastern part of Liberia, including Maryland County, Grand Kru County, River Gee County, and Sinoe County.

The Grebo people are also present in southwestern Côte d’Ivoire, referred to as Krumen. They communicate using the Grebo language, a subdivision of the Kru language family.

Additional ethnic groups present in Liberia comprise the Lorma, Kissi, Gola, Krahn, Mandingo, Gbandi, Mende, and numerous others.

Written and edited by Ebby