Qaraan: A Pillar of Somali Philanthropy, Weaving Community Bonds

The broader term for such collective efforts is Gurmad, encompassing community development projects that contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Whether it's building schools, mosques, or water wells, Gurmad reflects the shared commitment of the community towards progress. Qaraan, as a specific manifestation of Gurmad, is activated in response to individual or family crises.

Typically, when misfortune befalls a community member, a meeting is convened among close clan members and neighbours. This gathering serves as the starting point for fundraising efforts to support the victim and their dependents, and is often facilitated by clan elders, who guide the proceedings and may set fundraising targets. They also oversee the collection of resources, which extend beyond monetary contributions. In a true display of communal solidarity, individuals may donate their time, offer their labour, contribute goods, or lend equipment to the person or family in need.

In religiously significant places like mosques, donations are collected and directed to the affected individual or family. Women’s groups also hold parallel fundraising and make significant contributions to the collective pool of resources. For more extensive calamities, such as floods or droughts affecting multiple families, religious leaders often play a crucial role in coordinating larger-scale fundraising initiatives. In smaller-scale scenarios, the victim's immediate clan or kinsmen take the lead in providing support. For instance, if a fire ravages a household or business premises, the funds collected are used to rebuild their lives, demonstrating the practical impact of this tradition. Even Somali diaspora communities actively participate by sending financial assistance, reinforcing the sense of unity and shared responsibility transcending geographical boundaries.

The importance of Qaraan also extends beyond individual incidents to address the broader challenges faced by displaced communities due to war or insecurity. In these instances, the tradition becomes a symbol of reunion and collective community spirit.

This spirit of brotherhood and mutual support is deeply ingrained in Somali religious and cultural practices. It transcends political boundaries and is often felt by other communities living along the Somalis. It echoes through the words of the Somali national anthem, "Soomaaliyeey toosoo, toosoo isku tiirsada ee, hadba kiina taag daran, taageera waligiina!" which translates to a call for unity and standing together in solidarity, a sentiment that lies at the heart of Qaraan and its role in weaving the intricate social fabric of Somali society.

Contributor: Rufaa Sheikh Ahmed