The Algerian delegation at the Afro-Arab Congress has urged African youth to promote their nations by wearing traditional clothing, stressing that this practice will strengthen cultural heritage and promote social integration across the continent.
Benturki Aisha, leader of the 11-member delegation told Bbeg Media at Hotel Africana in Kampala that they were proud to be Algerians, and that’s why they wear “traditional garments such as the Karakou, Babouche, Burnous, Djellaba, Bahni Mizabe, and Gandoura to showcase our beautiful country to our fellow Africans and the world.”
She explained that Algeria boasts a variety of traditional clothing, each linked to specific regions and worn during significant occasions such as national holidays, weddings, and Islamic ceremonies.
For example, the Karakou and Caftan are popular among women in the northern, eastern, and western regions of Algeria, while the Gandoura is worn by men during national celebrations. The Melhafa, a special garment for women from the south, and the Babouche, worn by women in the north, reflect regional diversity.
The Burnous, a garment for men typically worn during national days and weddings, comes in white or brown and is made from sheep or camel hair. The Djellaba, worn by men in western Algeria, is donned for national holidays, weddings, and Islamic events such as Eid al-Adha, and Eid al-Fitr. The Bahni Mizabe is worn by men in the central region.
Aisha emphasised that Algerian culture values hospitality, with visitors often receiving gifts such as Burnous garments for men, Karakou for women, or a Mahrama Tleftou (scarf). She called on African youth to use traditional attire to foster unity, social cohesion, and cultural integration, encouraging their peers across the continent and beyond to embrace their heritage for greater pride and easier identification with their roots.
The delegation also extended warm wishes to Ugandans on its 63rd Independence Anniverasy which was celebrated on October 9.
The Algerians joined other Afro-Arab youth delegates in showcasing their traditional attire in honour of the occasion. They expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations with Uganda in education, trade, commerce, and cultural exchanges.
