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.

Religion

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Through the influence of Muslim Fulani, the Wodaabe have imported some elements of Islam into their culture such as the adoption of Muslim names and the use of the word Allah in their greeting rituals. At the same time, the Wodaabe are staunch traditionalists with strong beliefs in magic and the supernatural. While the Wodaabe hold great reverence for the Islamic reformer Usman dan Fodio, he is revered for his supernatural powers above all. The Wodaabe continue to practice their traditions much as they did in pre-Islamic Africa engaging in an array of vibrant celebrations and elaborate rituals. Many of the Wodaabe's rituals and beliefs are in stark opposition to those of Islam. For example, the Wodaabe do not believe in an after-life yet belief in the after-life is a basic tenet of Islam. In the Gerewol celebration the most handsome young men, participate in a beauty contest, perform sensual dances and try to charm their way into the heart of a potential lover. The Gereewol condones self-indulgence and preoccupation with one's physical attributes, placing it in direct opposition with Islam's notion of keeping the human ego in check so that Allah remains the most important entity in a Muslim's life. The Wodaabe generally do not follow the five pillars of Islam.

External links

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• Wodaabe information
• Wodaabe "gerewol" Photos from Niger

References

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

Ethnic groups in Cameroon | Ethnic groups in the Central African Republic | Ethnic groups in Nigeria | Ethnic groups in Niger | Indigenous peoples of West Africa | African nomads | Wodaabe