abbaneh

Updated: September 29, 2025

It must be observed, however, that the word denotes the protege as well as the protector; In the latter sense it is the polite address to a Somali, as Ya Abbaneh, O Protectress, would be to his wife. The Abban acts at once as broker, escort, agent, and interpreter, and the institution may be considered the earliest form of transit dues.

Sir Richard Francis Burton - First Footsteps in East Africa