The Sacred Groves of the Chaga
The Chaga people maintain sacred groves (mshitu) on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, patches of virgin forest that are never cut or farmed. According to tradition, these groves are the dwelling places of the mountain spirits (warimu) who protect the Chaga people. The largest and most sacred grove is said to be where Ruwa himself first touched the mountain. Within these groves, the trees are never felled, the animals are never hunted, and only initiated elders may enter. The groves serve as the burial grounds for chiefs (Mangi) and as sites for the most important ceremonies. When a child is born, a t