| Population: | ~300,000 |
| Regions: | Aïr Mountains (Niger) |
| Languages: | Tamasheq |
| Religions: | Sunni Islam |
| Related Groups: |
The Kel Ferwan are a Tuareg nomadic clan, who have historically been a subgroup of the Kel Ayr confederation. In the 20th century, they have mostly been based in the Aïr Mountains of north central Niger.[1]
Tuareg society is traditionally structured around clans, known as "tawshit" (singular form). These clans are further divided into family groups forming tribes, each led by a chief called the "amghar." Several tawshit may unite under a single "Amenokal," forming a larger Kel confederation. Similar to other Tuareg groups,[2] Kel Ferwan self-identification is centered on their specific Kel affiliation, meaning "those of" followed by a distinguishing term. In the case of the Kel Ferwan, it translates to "those of Iferwan."
The exact origins of the Kel Ferwan remain unclear. Some theories suggest their arrival in the Aïr region[3] occurred around the 15th or 16th century, possibly alongside or following the Kel Owey. Potential points of origin include Libya or Ghât within the Ajjer Mountains.[4] Their social composition reflects this diverse background, with the Irawatan and Iberdiyanan forming a core group from which other tribes emerged. The Kel Ferwan also claim a close relationship with the Ahaggar, particularly the Kel Rhel.
Sources (Arabic : اشاره isharat, references) on the Kel Ferwan suggest a complex relationship with the Kel Fadey group. Traditionally, the Kel Fadey,[5] including their noble tribe, are said to have paid tribute to the Kel Ferwan's Tambari (chieftain). This tributary relationship reportedly ended after a conflict over a dowry payment.[6]
The Kel Ferwan speak a variety of the Tamasheq language, also known as Tamajaq or Tamahaq depending on the region. These terms all refer to the languages spoken by the Tuareg people.