Background
Somalis originate from Somalia, located on the Horn of Africa. The Somalis or Samaal consist of six major clan-families. Four of the families represent about 70 per cent of Somalia's population. These are the Dir, Daarood, Isaaq and Hawiye families who originally led a predominantly pastoral life style. The remaining two clan families, accounting for 30 per cent of the population, are the Digil and Rahanwayn clans who originally followed an agricultural way of life. Despite sharing the same language, religion and customs, Somalis have developed a clear clan consciousness. This has led to conflict between different clans and sub-clans.
Language
The predominant language of the Somali people is Somali. This had no written form until an official script was introduced in 1973. Because of this, many older people in the Somali community are unable to read and write, particularly those originating from the rural communities.
Religion
Somalis are generally Sunni Muslims.
Lifestyle, Customs and Practices
Many Somalis do not eat pork or pork products. Any meat consumed must be halal, which is produced by slaughtering the animal in accordance with religious practices. Usually, alcohol is forbidden. Somali men in Ireland will generally wear western clothes, although they may also wear a white cloth cap. Many Somali women wear a scarf to cover their heads and a long gown known as a juba, which drapes from the neck to the ankles. This is because religious practice requires women to keep their bodies covered at all times. The Somali naming system differs from most Muslims. A Somali name is made up of the first/personal name with either the father or grandfather's name used as a last name/surname. Both men and women use this naming system. A typical male name is: Personal Father Grandfather e.g. Mohammed Jama Abdi. A typical female name is: Sashra Omar Hassan. Women have traditionally maintained their own name on marriage and a husband and wife will often have names that have no common element. From a Garda perspective, it is useful to be aware that many Somalis had to leave their country in dangerous circumstances. To enable safe passage out of the country and avoid detectionby rival clans, they had to use false names. These false names have subsequently appeared on their documentation in the host country and have by default become their legal names. However, members of their clan who are in their community in the host country are likely only to know them by the original name they had in Somalia with other Muslims. Somalis prefer to bury their dead as soon as possible after death. A post mortem is acceptable to Somalis only if there is a legal requirement for one to be conducted. The grief of the family and friends is openly expressed and the mourning period can last from seven days to as much as three months.