At the Daim Arab market in Port Sudan, Beja merchants polish and sell Kaskara swords. With their straight, double-edged blades, they are traditionally worn at weddings or on journeys. They symbolize the identity of the Eastern Sudanese.
Hamed Boli, a sword merchant, explains that the Kaskara has become a permanent part of Sudanese culture and today represents a source of pride for the people.
"The Beja people of eastern Sudan remain attached to their customs and traditions, embodied by the sword, the dagger and the whip. What we see in this market represents the heritage and culture of the inhabitants of eastern Sudan," says the sword merchant.
"Until now, when a person from Beja carries a sword and dagger, it is considered a sacred tradition. They believe that a knight must carry a sword when traveling and moving about. Even at social events, the groom and his companions carry swords, thus respecting these customs," he explains.
The Kaskara is not just a simple sword; it embodies centuries of history, influence, and craftsmanship. It is one of the most iconic swords of the eastern Sahel region, described by experts as a fusion of African craftsmanship and Arab and European sword-making techniques.
In the suede market, other iconic pieces of Sudanese culture are showcased. Taher Ibrahim Mohamed offers fabrics typical of the region.
"Here, we sell Sudanese clothing specific to the tribes of eastern Sudan, to which the Beja tribes and those living in Port Sudan belong. [These clothes] are part of the traditional Sudanese national costume," he says.
The artisans and traders of the Daim Arab market in Port Sudan welcome tourists and locals every day, with whom they proudly share their cultural heritage.
