Social organization and cultural institutions of the Afar of Northern Ethiopia

Abstract

An anthropological study was conducted on the social organizations and traditional cultural institutions
of the Afar pastoral society in northern Ethiopia. This paper describes the clan-based institutions that
are central to Afar culture and cosmology. Gerontocracy (the rule of elders), well established economic
and political support networks and a patriarchal authority at all levels feature in the Afar mode of life.
Descent is traced through the male line and women, while substantially contributing to household
income earning, occupy only a marginal place in the society. The Afar people are known for their
efficient communication skills and institutions. They are well versed and articulate in expressing their
views in a disciplined manner, often consolidating their arguments using carefully selected idiomatic
expressions and proverbs.