Riffians

Riffians, or Rifians, are an indigenous Berber ethnic group from the Rif region in northeastern Morocco. They primarily speak Tarifit, a Berber language belonging to the Zenati group, although many also speak Moroccan Arabic or Spanish, particularly those living in areas with significant emigration to Europe. The Riffians are mostly Sunni Muslims and have a long history of cultural and social traditions shaped by their mountainous and isolated homeland, which includes parts of the Mediterranean coast and the autonomous city of Melilla in Spain.

Historically, Riffians have faced economic challenges due to the rugged and eroded landscape of their region, which is poorly irrigated and deforested. Despite these difficulties, they have maintained an agricultural lifestyle, utilizing hand tools, oxen, and cattle for plowing steep, terraced land. Their diet traditionally includes meat, cheese, and milk from goats and sheep, as well as horticultural produce. Some Riffians also engage in sardine fishing along the coast. The region’s poverty and limited resources have contributed to high infant mortality rates and migration to other countries, particularly in Western Europe, where Riffian communities are now well-established in countries such as Spain, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

Riffians have experienced several conflicts throughout history. The most notable of these was the Rif War in the 1920s, where they fought against Spanish colonial forces, enduring significant casualties, including the use of chemical weapons by the Spanish army. In addition, Riffian cultural traditions, such as the songs and dances of Ayara Liyara, commemorate their resistance to external invasions, particularly from the Almoravids in the 11th century.

In modern times, the Riffians have continued to protest for better living conditions, including education, healthcare, and jobs. Their social movements, such as those seen in 2017, highlight ongoing struggles against government neglect and repression.