The Kuna at a glance.

Jack & Suzy Krumroy

Missionaries to Panama

The Kuna at a glance.

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The Kuna are one of several indigenous tribes of Panama. They are probably one of the best known tribes because of their dress. The women wear what are known as “molas” (check out this one that Suzy’s mom made for our baby Marisol) all of which are hand made and sown on onto blouses which are worn with pride. The women also wear beads on their arms and legs which, according to their superstitions, keep away evil spirits. The Kuna are concentrated on the northeastern side of Panama and live in the dense jungles inland or on the islands off the coast known as San Blas. They have their own constitution and are generally self governing. They are very superstitious people, and have been known to mix basic Christianity with their ancient belief system, making them extremely difficult to minister to. Witchcraft is widely practiced in the villages as well. Kunas live in small villages in much the same way that they have for hundreds of years, cooking over open fires, living in stick and thatch huts, and living off the land.

Beads like these on Marileida's arm are common among the Kuna women. Beads are also worn on the legs as well.

The mainstay of the Kuna diet is fish. And ,lots of it!! When Suzy and I were staying in mom’s hut, she would cook fresh tilapia for everyone for breakfast , and whatever was left over would be eaten for lunch. Then for dinner, fish would be boiled in water with pieces of plantain in a grey soupy fishy tasting meal. (it is definitey an acquired taste Aside from fish, wild boar, monkey, iguana and chicken are also consumed.

Breakfast!!!

The Kuna sleep in hammocks at night. They take some getting used to, but do become more comfortable as time goes on. Many have adopted the practice of draping a sheet over the hammock at night to prevent mosquitos, which become quite thick at night, from biting them as they sleep. During the day, the women spend a lot of time working on their molas, and chatting amongst each other. They also do the cooking for the family, and keep up with the hut. Many times there will be visitors from other huts and they might work together. The men leave early in the morning to hunt, fish, pick bananas, etc.. The workday begins very early and the roar of boat motors can be heard just as the sun is coming up.

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In the afternoon, napping is definitely in!!! And so is basketball!!

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1 Comment»

Melanie Sibamba wrote @ March 7, 2009 at 8:23 am

Suzy and Jack, I am so excited for you! The website looks great and I wish you many blessings for you and your family! May the Lord give you strength and protection in each step of faith you take and know that you are in our prayers! Keep up the amazing work and I know God will continue to use you in bringing a multitude of people to the Kingdom!

Jack & Suzy Krumroy