Al Hakamat(poetess) ... A legacy renewed| Sudanow Magazine

PortSudan(Sudanow)

bitiridu allatam asid alkidad 'iilzam( By unleashing powerful strikes, a strong and brave lion compels his enemies to defeat)
hazit albalad min alyaman lilshaam (You shook the land from Yemen to Sham)
sayfuk lilfaqr qilam (Your sword is sharp enough to cut necks)

These words are said by the Sudanese woman Roquayya Mohammed, glorifying her brother who fought English colonialism until he was hanging in the middle of the market Abdalqadir Wada Hububa

The announcement was issued, and the noble ones gathered.
With my eyes, I see Abu Raswa aspiring high.
If we were wish, there are no restrictions
Wad Ab Kereig wouldn’t be hanged in the market.

This text highlights the values of courage and resilience in fighting colonialism.

The Hakamat is a poetess who recites her poetry on various occasions, praising or criticizing as the situation demands. What she says becomes a lasting mark on a person within the tribe, shaping their reputation for life. As a result, everyone fears her words, for she is the voice of the tribe.

Sudan’s tribal diversity has greatly enriched this musical and poetic tradition. Sudanese people have fought wars against colonial powers and engaged in tribal conflicts over grazing lands and, at times, cattle raids. In these battles, the Hakamat played a crucial role, igniting the warriors' enthusiasm to defend their land, honor, and rights.
and glorifying the values of chivalry and bravery.

The Hakamat in the Darfur region, which has been exhausted by frequent wars, has sung both war anthems to inspire fighters and peace poetry to promote reconciliation. They have played a significant role in both war and peace, elevating the value of reconciliation among brothers and neighbors.

Here is one of them chanting for peace

Beni Halba and Salamat, my cousins,
Messeriya and Rizeigat, my brothers,
Peace and goodness shall spread across my homeland.

The writer Mohamed Mohamed Ali, in his book Sudanese Poetry in Political Battles, documents the story of Mahira bint Abboud, who ignited the enthusiasm of men during a battle between the Ja’aliyyin kings and Muhammad Ali Basha.

Seeing hesitation in the Ja’aliyyin king, as the battle seemed unequal, Mahira stood before him and sang, provoking him to avenge their honor.

If you hesitate, O our fellows,
Give us the shields,
And take our women’s veils instead.

She challenged them, implying that if they refused to fight, they should dress as women and let the women take up arms. Her words stimulate the men into battle, riding their horses with Mahira leading on a camel, chanting with passion.

Tonight, be ready and mount the warhorses,
At the front, their leader charges ahead,
Our brave warriors roar like lions,
Tell the foolish Basha, 'Come at us if you dare

The men fought with unrelenting bravery, defending their honor.

Zainab Abdel-Majid’s Tribute to Al-Nujoumi

Similarly, Zainab Abdel-Majid witnessed her brother Al-Nujoumi, a valiant fighter against colonial rule, shackled in chains after his heroic resistance. She composed a poem glorifying his courage and urging him to remain steadfast.

Chains on Al-Nujoumi...
Like a beaded ornament, beautifully strung,
He fears no threats in battle,
Raise your mighty hand
See, even in chains, you remain proud.

She described him standing tall in captivity, his chains adorning him like a necklace of jewels, befitting his dignity and valor.

Modern-Day Hakamat and Their Role in War

In contemporary history, Hakamat have continued to sing songs of courage and noble virtues, standing firmly behind the Sudanese Armed Forces, which has been engaged in battle since April 15, 2023, to defend Sudanese identity.

Among the most prominent figures in this tradition is Nada Al-Qalaa, who passionately praised and encouraged the soldiers.

The battlefield calls for Burhan,
Not for the traiter or the coward.
Among us, there’s no traitor,
Among us, no coward will rise.
Dignified as lions and tigers,
Honored soldiers of our army,
Majestic like kings crowned in glory.

Another iconic song by Eman Al-Sharif became a Sudanese anthem of courage.

We are Sudanese, we swallow mountains,
Lions, unshaken in the heat of battle.
Our eyes blaze like fire,
We do not fear death
The warrior queens rise in pride,
A response to those who envy us.
Behind us stand men like pillars
They do not fear death.

Hakamat Across Generations

The nation's history remembers Hawa Al-Taqtaqa, who resisted British colonial rule until Sudan gained independence, draping herself in the Sudanese flag.

Many women have immortalized their names in history, defending their homeland with words and glorifying noble virtues. The Hakamat legacy has been passed down from generation to generation, constantly evolving but always remaining relevant.

While titles may change, some are now called Hakamat, and other singers, their role remains the same. their words shape the actions of men, inspiring bravery and chivalry.

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