The Irony gleaming traditional barbers leather purse (Zabira)

By Maryam Adamu Dala

Zabira is the purse or bag that contains the entire tools of traditional barbers also known as Wanzami in singular while Wanzamai in plural.

The Wanzami can be seen longing around with the Zabira usually on his left arm on daily basis looking for people that needs his services.

The Zabira mostly contains the Aska (the barbing and circumcision knife) which in most cases used to shave bears, haircut among other things, Razor blades and Kaho (horn: traditional cupping used to draw out condemned and damaged or unhealthy blood from the body of an individual).

Other things found in the Zabira are Koshiya and dogari ( tools used for removing 'Yar wuya) and some traditional medicines as the Wanzamis renders the services of herbalist in most cases.

In conclusion, the content of a traditional barber's purse in (zabira), vary depending on the specific tools and supplies that the barber uses. However, typical items found in a Zabira may include:

Straight razor

Scissors

Comb

Hair clippers

Shaving cream or soap

Brush for applying shaving cream or soap

Towels or cloths for wiping off excess shaving cream or hair

A small mirror for customers to see their reflection

These are some of the common items that a traditional Hausa barber may carry in their purse. However, the specific contents may vary depending on the barber's preferences and the services they offer.

Maryam Adamu Dala,

Mass Communication department, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi Bauchi State.