by JR

Another distinct group of Nubians in Egypt are the Fedicca. As with the Donglowai and Arab Nubians, they are farmers who live in rural areas. Their spiritual beliefs are dominated by a blend of Islam and animism. Their language is the only thing that separates them from their Nubian cousins.

The Fedicca Nubian literacy rate is quite high in comparison with that of their rural Egyptian neighbors. Primary and secondary schools exist in their region, as well as teacher-training facilities. Many people have radios and televisions and these media have become much more influential among them in recent years.

The typical Nubian house is very spacious, with several large rooms and a central, open courtyard. The front of a home is painted with colorful geometric patterns, most of which have religious connotations. These colorful designs are a distinctive feature of Nubian culture.

Agriculture runs the economy of the Fedicca Nubians, but since the relocation of about 100,000 Nubians in the 1960s, the work habits have changed. Now, the men do most of the fieldwork, and the women work in the home. Many women have also found work as teachers, in public service and as seamstresses.

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