Fada (social group)

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A fada is a type of social group in urban Niger, whose members, primarily unemployed young men, drink tea and have conversations. They meet at streetside locations in the evening. Fadas are inclusive toward members of differing classes and backgrounds, but female members are uncommon. Most unite friends who cannot find work, though some are composed of full-time workers or students. Fadas exist in cities across Niger, including the capital, Niamey. Young men view fadas as a part of their social identities and may spend a significant amount of time with them. Fadas originated in the early 1990s, when Niger transitioned to democracy and the country's economy declined amid welfare cuts. After the government increased expressional liberties in 1991, young protestors in Niamey began meeting at night in public. These groups drank tea and referred to themselves with the Hausa word fada, literally referring to a royal court. As private radio was established in Niger, radio shows and hip-hop music...

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