The Bongo are one of several closely affiliated groups (Bongo, Belanda, Sara) that moved from Chad in the 16th century to the grasslands area of southern Sudan. They are especially known for their grave markers – tall posts with anthropomorphic features – carved from mahogany which resists weathering and termites. The posts are awarded to worthy people, such as chiefs. Some examples bear specifics about the interred individual, such as notches that denote the number of large animals they killed. The posts become a focal point through which living descendants can contact the deceased, whose spirit will be with Loma (the creator god). Belanda pieces can be differentiated from Bongo versions owing to the more naturalistic appearance of the former; furthermore, Belanda figures appear to be standing atop a column rather than being a part of it.