Shifta

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Shifta (or "shufta") is a Swahili term for bandits used in the Horn of Africa, particularly Eritrea, Somalia and Ethiopia.[1] Shifta historically lived as soldiers or militia type factions in lawless rural mountainous regions in the horn of Africa. Chiefly known for robbing or killing those caught travelling between populated villages or cities, stealing cattle and raiding small villages. Nowadays they are known for terrorising travellers within the un-policed lands of the horn of Africa.[2]

[edit] Concepts

The concept of shiftinnet (being a shifta) is different from one country to another. In Ethiopia shiftas are considered as people struggling for social order and are highly respected. It is also worth noting that most shiftas emerged from noble classes of the society. Kassa Hailu had lived as a shifta before becomming emperor. [3]

[edit] History

[edit] References and notes

  1. ^ Somali Refugees in Kenya. Human Rights Watch. Retrieved on 2007-03-29.
  2. ^ Hunt for tourists moves to Eritrea. Scotland on Sunday. Retrieved on 2007-03-29.
  3. ^ [2003] Rethinking Resistance: revolt and violence in African history. Brill Academic Publishers, 95-96. ISBN 9-0041-2624-4. 
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