27/03/2024
A trip to Fulfube land
Fula, Peul, or Fulfube as they are commonly called is the second largest ethnic group constituting 22.4% of the population and they are widely dispersed across the country . They migrated to the Gambia in the 18’00s from Guinea Conakry , Mali , and mainly Senegal from Futa toro and Futa Bundu. In the 19th century, their major settlements in the country were in Jimara, Wuli, Tomana, Kantora and Niani located in the Upper River region. As they progressed in migration some now settle in the urban areas and other parts of the country. Traditionally they are nomads herding goats, cattle, and sheep and their language is Pulaar. Nine dialects have been identified in the Gambia reflecting different areas of origin, period of arrival and considerable cultural diversity. They have strong cultural and historical connections to the Tukulors of Senegal.
Being the second largest ethnic group in the Gambia Fulas have been highly influential in the politics, education , and the economy of the Gambia. Their rise to prominence in business and politics is quite fascinating and intriguing. Many have relinquished their traditional occupations embracing commerce, business and politics. This is due to urbanization, modernization and western education although risking their ancient identity. Fulas in the Gambia are the backbone of the modern Gambian economy contributing to job creation, economic growth, and community development. Their penchant for trade and business have brought wealth, prestige and rapid development to the country. It is notably clear that most of the biggest and most dominant political parties have Fula flag bearers , one of them is the president of the republic of the Gambia Adama Barrow’s NPP party. Other prominent politicians include Hamat Bah, Mama Kandeh, and the late Omar Jallow.
Like other ethnic groups Fulas have a unique culture, attire, food and music peculiar to them. One of their notable physical attributes is their attires and jewelries. Although dressing and clothing vary by region , they are renowned for their beautiful materials woven or dyed , their henna designs and the Creation of lavish jewelries with delicate filigree details. Fulas in the Gambia wear a traditional attire made from scratchy wool or cotton with a shirt like a poncho and a Chaya for male and a wrapper for females. The also wear the leppe which common to Guinean Fulas. Their women are known for their beautiful headdresses and conical hats made from straw and leather for men. Women usually adorn themselves with earrings, necklaces, and they use indigo ink around their mouths resulting in the blackening of the lips and gums , though this is common amongst Senegambian Fulas. Both men and women also have markings on their faces, eyes and mouth but this is rarely seen on modern Fula men and women.
Accompanying their striking dress and jewelry, they also have a rich musical culture and nutritious meals. They play a variety of traditional instruments including drums (hoddu), ritti, and the flute. Due to their nomadic nature milk is an essential ingredient in their diet. Kossam as it is generally called is usually mixed with corn couscous to make a popular dish known as latchiiri or dakkere and it’s a popular dish eaten by almost all Fula communities. This milk diet is loved by many other tribes and even other West African migrants of other tribes in the Gambia. Chakiri as it fondly called is loved by a diverse set of people making them popular amongst other cultures. Another popular dish is futti and hakko made with okra and potato leaves.
They are people with admirable beauty and desirable physical qualities . They are mostly light skinned with slender bodies, long straight soft hair and pointed noses. Some of the common Fula names include in the Gambia include Jallow, Baldeh, Jawo, Kandeh, Sey, Leigh, Bah , Barry, Taal, Sallah, Anne, Kah, Sowe, Bah, Barry and Kah . When next you meet a Fula, Peul, or Fulfube do not forget to resonate with their exquisite physical qualities.
