Constituting 25% of the population of Mae Yao, the Akha, also known to the Thai as the Gaw or the E-gaw (names that the Akha do not like), are one of the dominant cultural influences in the area. The Akha are closely related with the Hani of Yunnan province, China, the Akha-Hani complex numbers about two to three million people, but with just over 70,000 members in Thai territory. The Akha speak a language in the Lolo/Yi branch of the Tibeto-Burman language group, but have no traditional written language. There are a variety of schemes for writing Akha developed by missionaries or linguists which employ Roman, Thai or Burmese characters, but literacy in Akha is still virtually nil. The Akha are traditionally subsistence farmers, growing a variety of crops including rice and corn.

Though many Akha, especially younger people, profess Christianity, Akha Zang (The Akha Way), a total lifestyle prescribed in religious chants, still runs deep in the consciousness of older generations. The Akha Way combines animism, ancestor worship and their deep relationship with the land. The Akha Way is a way of life which extends beyond simple religious practice and infuses every aspect of their existence. The Akha Way emphasizes rituals in everyday life and stresses strong family ties; every Akha male can recount his genealogy back over fifty generations to the first Akha, Sm Mi O.

But the chain of continuity so important for Akha people is being broken. A combination of Thai schooling, land restrictions, some missionary activities, technology and a feeling of social inferiority to lowland Thais is making the once essential Akha Way less attractive and relevant for younger generations who are rapidly integrating into Thai society.

The Akha are renowned for their hospitality and gorgeous attire, especially their headdresses, which are decorated with silver coins. To view more examples of Akha handicrafts, please go to www.ebannok.com. For more information about Akha people, click here.