Nestled 25 kilometers west of Daraa city in southern Syria lies Gleen, a village inhabited by Syrians of African descent. This community, numbering over 7,000 residents, traces its origins in the region back to 1813.
According to local accounts, the ancestors of Gleen’s inhabitants arrived via Hajj caravans. Others came as soldiers within the army of Ibrahim Pasha, dispatched by his father, Muhammad Ali Pasha, the then-governor of Egypt, during his military campaign in Syria between 1831 and 1833, under Ottoman rule.
Residents describe a cultural blend, with younger generations embracing the traditions and customs of the Hauran region, to which the Daraa province belongs. Elders, however, emphasize a unique mix of Haurani and African, particularly Sudanese, influences. This is evident in their cuisine, where they enjoy both the traditional Haurani ‘Mleehi’ dish and the Sudanese ‘Asida,’ made from okra flour and meat.
The village’s economy is primarily divided between two sectors. Some residents specialize in crafting intricate decorations from reeds, known locally as ‘Al-Qusaib,’ sourced from the nearby valley. Others are engaged in agriculture, particularly the cultivation of pomegranate trees.
The fertile soil of Gleen and its surrounding areas significantly contributed to the settlement of people of African origin in this region. The area is known for its lush agricultural landscape.
The African population in southern Syria represents a vital thread in the diverse Syrian tapestry, which includes Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, Circassians, and numerous other ethnicities that have settled in Syria over centuries. They are an integral part of the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Their history and traditions contribute significantly to the social fabric of the region. The preservation of their heritage is crucial for understanding the complexities of Syrian society.
