The Chenouis

The Chenouis, also known as Chenoua or Icenwiyen in Berber, are a Berber ethnic group native to the Chenoua Mountains in northern Algeria. They are one of the many Berber groups in the country and have a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in the region’s history. The Chenoui people traditionally inhabit the areas between Ténès in the east and Cherchell in the west, with their population estimated to be around 106,000. Their language, Shenwa, is a Northern Berber dialect closely related to the Shawiya and Zenata varieties spoken by Berbers in eastern Algeria and the Rif region.

Geographically, the Chenouis’ traditional lands are located in the province of Tipaza, as well as parts of Chlef and Ain Defla provinces. The region is named after Mount Chenoua, which rises above the city of Tipaza and serves as a dominant geographical feature in the area. The mountains form part of the greater Dahra range, which stretches along the Mediterranean coast and is separated from the Ouarsenis mountain range by the Chelif River. This area is rich in history and natural beauty, attracting attention from both historians and nature lovers.

The Chenoui people are known for their unique cultural practices, which reflect the Berber heritage, including their traditional customs, music, and crafts. Although the majority of Chenouis speak Algerian Arabic in addition to their native Shenwa, the preservation of their language remains an important cultural priority. Over the centuries, the Chenouis have maintained a close connection with the land, relying on agriculture and livestock farming as key components of their economy.

The Chenouis are also known for their distinct social organization and have historically been seen as a subgroup of the Kabyle people, particularly those in the western part of the Kabylie region. Their culture continues to thrive in the region, despite the influences of modernization and the spread of Arabization in Algeria.