First ancient DNA from the Swahili culture discovered by researchers

Kusimba identified the lineage of the people tested as both African and Asian while working with Harvard geneticists David Reich and Esther Brielle, as well as corresponding authors Jeff Fleisher from Rice University and Stephanie Wynne-Jones from the University of York.

The results of the DNA analysis showed a pattern: the vast majority of the male line's ancestors originated in Asia, whereas the female line's ancestors originated in Africa.

They spoke an African language, not an Asian one

Despite intermarrying, their descendants spoke an African language rather than an Asian one. As a result, researchers concluded that African women significantly impacted the formation of culture, so much they were the primary holders of economic and social power.

The findings refute long-standing theories by other African locals that wealthy Swahilis claimed to have ancestry in Asia to downplay their African origin and gain greater social position and cultural affinity.

The study’s results prove that Asian and African ancestors began intermarrying at least 1,000 years ago, long after Africans had established villages.

“Our results do not provide simple validation for the narratives previously advanced in archaeological, historical, or political circles,” Kusimba said. “Instead, they contradict and complicate those narratives.”