The Wodaabe Fulani are known for their great knowledge of lore and magic. They make magical potions out of wild plants and tree bark, ranging anywhere from traditional healing remedies for ailments of all kinds, to magic love potions.
One of the most curious to me is their “cattle wooing potions”; this magic allows them to lead entire herds. In fact, you will never see a Fulani push a herd from behind. They walk ahead, certain that their animals will be closeby. The Fulani love their cows; they are their most treasured possessions and friends. They are impressive natural veterinarians, and even know how to recognize the footprints of their specific animals in the sand.
Unfortunately, with the advent of drastic climate change, the Fulani are losing their cattle, their wealth, their friends, and even a part of their culture as they seek to survive and adapt to unremitting environmental conditions in new ways. May their magical beautiful nature survive.
Photo: Dadji, a Wodaabe man, prepares himself for the Gerewul dance, where he will dance to seduce the most beautiful woman, and steal away with her, thereby committing teegal. I’ve been warned never to shake a Wodaabe man’s hand, less I desire him to steal my heart with magic.
