SUMMARY

One of the main causes of conflict between different ethnic groups in Darfur is the formation of “Dars”. In Arabic “Dar” means homeland (Darfur literally means “home of the Fur people”) and some of the ethnic groups in Darfur are in possession of such Dars whilst others are not. The groups that lack Dars have often fought to establish such entities whilst the groups that have existing Dars struggle to enlarge them. The Dar is important to an ethnic community for a number of reasons. It allows for native administration, endows a group with a measure of political recognition and representation, allows for the possession of a local council or sub-council, and increases tribal prestige in relation to other tribes.

At the time of writing (2008) the Fulani did not have a well-established Dar, which instead was in the process of being formed. This process has resulted in conflicts between the Fulani and most of its neighboring groups (Habaniya, Fur, Masalat, Gimir and Beni Halba Baggara) in the 21st century. The Fulani have claimed, but been denied, land from its neighbors.

Many of the larger clashes between the Fulani and its neighbors have been with the Habaniya. In 2006 the two groups clashed a few times and in 2007 the clashes became more intense.

The non-state conflict between the Fulani and the Habaniya is first included in UCDP data in 2007. In January that year, fighting resulted in at least 25 battle-related deaths.