Harar, Ethiopia – Abdallah Ali Sherif, a 75-year-old resident of Harar’s historical walled city, reflects on his upbringing in eastern Ethiopia. He recalls a time when his parents were reluctant to share the rich history of their heritage. They often conveyed a sense of fear regarding the consequences of discussing cultural identity, which deeply impacted his understanding of tradition and belonging.
Harar, renowned for its colorful clay houses and narrow cobblestone roads, has long been an important center of Islamic scholarship. This city boasts a flourishing culture of manuscript production, creating sacred texts—such as Qurans, legal documents, and prayer books—in both Arabic and Ajami, a localized adaptation of Arabic script that serves Indigenous languages in the region. Throughout the 16th century, Harar thrived as the capital of the Adal Sultanate, controlling vast territories that comprise present-day Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Eritrea. The city flourished under capable Muslim leadership, strategically situated along ancient trade routes connecting the Horn of Africa with the Arabian Peninsula.
However, the latter part of the 19th century marked a significant change. In 1887, Harar fell to Menelik II’s forces and was integrated into a Christian empire, initiating an era of cultural repression. This included a systematic dismantling of Islamic education and cultural practices, with Arabic street signs supplanted by Amharic ones. Many Islamic institutions suffered erosion or outright destruction during this period, fostering a climate of fear among the local Muslim population, which Sherif experienced throughout his early life.
The onset of ethnic federalism in 1991 facilitated a renaissance of cultural expression and religious freedom for the Harari people. With newfound autonomy granted to their region, Sherif was inspired to embark on a mission to unearth and preserve Harar’s rich cultural legacy. He began amassing artifacts, music, and most significantly, manuscripts—each piece providing insights into a vibrant heritage that had largely been obscured.
Fourteen years ago, he established Ethiopia’s first private museum, the Abdallah Sherif Museum, aimed at reconnecting the local community with its history. This institution now houses a collection of approximately 1,400 manuscripts, including some of the oldest known Qurans, alongside various artifacts representing Harar’s historical tapestry.
Notably, Sherif has revitalized ancient bookbinding traditions that had faded from practice. By engaging the last remaining artisans versed in this craft and training a new generation, he has ensured that this vital aspect of cultural heritage remains intact. His museum has not just become a repository of the past but a hub for cultural revival, where education about Harar’s legacy flourishes.
Sherif’s quest to restore manuscripts not only preserves invaluable knowledge but also serves as a bridge to reconnect present generations with their past. His efforts are supported by a growing network of youth who participate in workshops, learning the art of bookbinding and cultural preservation.
As Sherif continues this important work, he often reflects on the transformative power of knowledge. Each manuscript he recovers is a “missing piece of a puzzle,” contributing to a more vibrant understanding of identity, community, and heritage that defines the Harari people.
With a commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement, Sherif’s endeavors exemplify resilience and dedication. His story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Harar and its people.
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