Each tribe and ruler had its own set of specialized drums, called nahaas (copper). They were formed from copper and covered in leather made from the hides of cows, camels, or wildebeests.

Nahaas have their own cultural significance throughout Sudan’s history, from the era of the Funj kingdom to modern times. They served as tribal symbols, as a means of communication among tribes, and were associated with many rituals and ceremonies, such as public summons to war, the death of an influential person, or for gatherings or meetings of Sultans.  

Different sequences of drum beats or rhythms have different names depending on their purpose. One example is the Darag, the rhythm of evoking enthusiasm and displaying social standing. There are many other recognisable rhythms passed down through generations.

Al Khalifa Abdullah’s musical unit included drums, whistlers, and Al Imbaya, small three stringed harps. They played these during parades, celebrations, national events and other functions. Al Khalifa followed the decree of Al Imam Al Mahdi, which stipulated that it was not permissible to play nahaas except in cases of war and funerals.

‍

Cover picture: Ja'aliyin tribe playing the drum, at Wad Hamid camp, during final preparations for the advance to the Omdurman front, Date: 1898 picture by General Sir Reginald Wingate © Durham Sudan archive