Asben

The Asben are a confederation of Tuareg people, who are Berber-speaking pastoralists inhabiting North and West Africa. They are primarily found in southern Niger, with their political organizations extending across national boundaries. The Asben, also known as the Aïr Tuareg, are one of several Tuareg groups, including the Ahaggar and Azjer in the north, and others like the Ifora and Itesen in the south. Traditionally, Tuareg society was feudal, and they have preserved a unique script called tifinagh. While historically known for raiding and caravan trading, their traditional way of life has been impacted by droughts and modernization.1