5 Things You Should Know About the Kanuris

Living mainly in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, the Kanuris are the dominant ethnic group in the state as well as the neighbouring state, Yobe State. They are called “Beri-Beri” by the Hausas, but they seldom use the term themselves. Often mistaken as Hausas by some people, it is important to state that they are not the same. Here are a few things you should know about the Kanuri people.   1. ORIGIN The Kanuris trace their origin to the Kanem-Bornu empire; an empire in the 16th and 17th century that spanned most of Middle Africa until colonization. Presently, they can be found in Borno State, Niger State as well as parts of Chad and Cameroon. 2. ECONOMY Their economy is quite complex with agriculture – mostly millet farming – being the main source of income for most homes and commerce, transportation and construction forming the other main elements of the private business sector while manufacturing and industry are relatively minor elements.  3. LANGUAGE Kanuri people speak Kanuri language which consists of two main dialects: Manga Kanuri and Yerwa Kanuri (also called Beri-Beri). 4. RELIGION Inheriting the religious and cultural traditions of the Kanem-Bornu empire, the Kanuri people are predominantly Sunni Muslims. 5. FASHION Four major types of traditional Kanuri male garments are worn. These are the Kulwu, Gemaje, Dankiki and Yange – with each having several sub-types. Traditional Kanuri trousers are exceptionally large and are made up of at least four to six yards of fabric. Kanuri women are usually dressed in colourful scarves or turbans with their lips painted black. They also adorn themselves with beautiful henna designs and jewelries.   The Kanuris have been in the news lately due to the insurgency in their area. This ancient tribe – with a culture so rich and beautiful – is currently being tormented by terrorists. Our hearts and prayers are with them as many have lost their lives, livelihood and home.   About the Writer: Rabiat Abdulkareem is a graduate of Chemistry from University of Ilorin. She is passionate about food, travel and books. Connect with her on twitter @rabiatota  

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This article was first published on 25th March 2015 and updated on March 29th, 2015 at 5:11 pm

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