Ever noticed the hat on top of most Somali male politicians or Islamic scholars? The Kufi or Kofia – a brimless hat – is traditionally worn by elders in many African cultures. The Kofu is a tradition all Muslims are required to emulate. While hats have religious significance in Islam, it symbolises wisdom, leadership and maturity in Africa. In Somalia, a Kufi and its habitué is traditionally revered and trusted because of its identification with wisdom. For more, read RBC Radio’s take on the magic power of the ‘Kufi’ in Somalia here.
