The Wodaabe: the Beautiful People of Northwest Africa

The Wodaabe, a subculture of the larger Fulbe-speaking Fulani, are a group of nomadic cattle-herders and traders who historically have been highly influential in politics and economics throughout western Africa.  Known to have existed for over one thousand years, the Wodaabe continue to play a significant role in furthering Fulani domination in the West African region.  Referring to themselves as Bororo, the Wodaabe migration area currently stretches from southern Niger to northern Nigeria, northeastern Cameroon to the western region of the Central African Republic.  In 1983, the number of Wodaabe was estimated at 45,000; a more current assessment virtually impossible due to geographic dispersal and cultural restrictions.  Perhaps the most visually striking culture compared to other indigenous groups of this region, the Wodaabe are known for their beauty (both men and women), elaborate attire, and rich cultural ceremonies.  Read more . . .

Black Rice: A New "Super Food"?

Most commonly known as the "forbidden rice," once reserved for the Emperor of China, black rice is now replacing blueberries and walnuts at the top of the list of good-for-you "super-foods." Specifically recommended as an excellent source of a special variety of antioxidants known as anthocyanin antioxidants, many are suggesting black rice should become a cash crop for American farmers.  According to research presented at the 240th national meeting of the American Cancer Society, just a spoonful of black rice bran contains more health promoting anthocyanin antioxidants than found in a spoonful of blueberries and more fiber and vitamin E antioxidants.   Read more . . .