African Food and Art

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Fumo Liyongo African Swahili Hero Poet

Fumo Liyongo African Swahili Hero Poet
African Hero Poet.
Fumo Liyongo was an African Swahili supernatural mythological hero, the son of African royalty. The mighty African hero Liyongo was an invincible poet a standing over eight feet tall. The mystical powers and supernatural abilities of the African hero Liyongo are told in many African Swahili poems.

Fumo Liyongo African Swahili Hero Poet.



Fumo Liyongo African Swahili Hero Poet


Fumo Liyongo means strong spear.

At the heart of many of the world's most enduring myths and legends is a bigger than life hero who triumphs over obstacles. Fumo Liyongo was famous throughout the land. He was a strong young man, beautiful and tall, he was so special he could not be compared to any other human. Apart from the exaggerated physical features, Liyongo is also described as humble, respectful and obedient. Liyongo is similar to the tales told of the USA’s Paul Bunyan and John Henry. Liyongo and Paul Bunyan are larger than life mythical folk heroes who symbolize strength. Swahili hero Liyongo is perhaps the most famous character in Swahili classical poetry.


Fumo Liyongo was an invincible African hero poet a standing over eight feet tall. The mystical powers and supernatural abilities of the African hero poet Liyongo are told in many Swahili poems. Swahili poetry or ushairi for centuries has played a central role in Swahili society. Fumo Liyongo or Liongo Swahili poetry has a long and rich history among the Swahili people of the East African coast with traditional African hero poetry and stories.

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