Wodaabe

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The Wodaabe (or Bororo) are a subgroup of the Fulani (sometimes Fula, Fulbe, or Peul) ethnic group. The Wodaabe are traditionally nomadic cattle-herders and traders, with migrations stretching from southern Niger, through northern Nigeria, northeastern Cameroon, and the western region of the Central African Republic.^[1][2]They are known for their beauty (both men and women), elaborate attire and rich cultural ceremonies.

Contents 1 Religion 2 Marriage 3 Works cited 4 External links 5 References

[edit] Religion

Wodaabe religion is largely but loosely Islamic. Although there are varying degrees of orthodoxy exhibited, most adhere to at least some of the basic requirements of the religion.^[3]Some academics have called them nominal Muslims due to elements of "non-Islamic" cultural customs which sometimes contradict Islamic belief.^{[citation needed]} Islam became a religion of importance among Wodaabe peoples during the 16th century when the great prophet El Maghili preached the teachings of Mohammed to the elite of northern Nigeria.^{[citation needed]}El Maghili was responsible for converting the ruling classes among Hausa, Fulani, and Tuareg peoples in the region.^[1][2]

[edit] Marriage

Wodaabe are often polygamous. Marriages are either arranged by parents when the couple are infants (called “koogal”). A bride stays with her husband until she becomes pregnant after which she returns to her mother's home, where she will remain for the next three to four years. She will deliver the baby at her mother's home and then she becomes a boofeydo which literally means, "someone who has committed an error."^[4]

[edit] Works cited

[edit] External links

• Wodaabe information
• People of Africa
• Wodaabe dancers Photos from Niger

[edit] References

• Beckwith, Carol. Nomads of Niger. Harry N. Abrams, Inc. 1993.