21/06/2023
Wanzanci is one of the oldest occupations in Hausaland. Wanzam is a local barber, traditional healer and also physician in Hausaland.
The occupation is normally inherited from one's parents and passed to children. It is a very vital occupation that people can not do without. Wanzam is the first person that is called whenever a new baby is born. Some of the services offered by wanzam are:
1. Haircuts
2. Circumcision
3. Cupping (Kaho)
4. Removal of Tonsilitis (Hakin wuya)
5. Female ge***al mutilation
6. Curving tribal marks
7. Giving medicines
Wanzamai can be seen walking around with their shiny leather bags. The Wanzami has all his tools in what is called a Zabira (toolkit). These tools include local blades (aska) of different sizes, cow horn (Kaho), black soap, cotton wool, etc.
More experienced wanzami also have an edge over amateur ones. For instance, an experienced wanzami can perform a bloodless circumcision or a long-distance one! Their services are more efficient too.
During their festival called wasan aska, where they showcase their talents and skills to the audience, a drummer and a singer are used to attract more audience.
This epic occupation is gradually fading out as most of the descendants of wanzamai have either adopted other modern occupations or still practicing barbing but using modern technologies.
📷 Prof. Bashir Aliyu Sallau
(Sarkin Askan Yariman katsina)
He is a professor of Hausa Cultural Studies, Federal University Dutsinma who still practice wanzamci as a university don.
