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Kabila

Kebdana

They call themselves Ikebdanen

Riffian-Berber tribe of Zenata origin in northeastern Morocco

The Kebdana, also known as Ichebdanen or Ikebdanen, are a Riffian-Berber tribe of Zenata origin living in the eastern Rif region of northeastern Morocco, mainly between Nador and Berkane. Many now live in regional cities and in Europe, but their traditional villages remain south of Arekmane.

Who are the Kebdana?

The Kebdana, also called Ichebdanen or Ikebdanen, are a Riffian-Berber tribe of Zenata origin. They are part of the larger Berber-speaking communities of the Rif mountains in northeastern Morocco. Their identity is shaped by shared language, customs, and a strong connection to their traditional villages. Many members have migrated to nearby cities and abroad, but ties to their homeland and community remain important. The Kebdana are known in the Rif for their distinct dialect and cultural practices.

Where do the Kebdana live?

The Kebdana traditionally live in the eastern part of the Rif mountains, a rugged region in northeastern Morocco. Their main villages are south of Arekmane, and their territory stretches between the towns of Nador and Berkane. The Rif is known for its hills, valleys, and Mediterranean climate. Today, many Kebdana have also settled in cities like Zaio, Arekmane, Ras Kebdana, Nador, Berkane, and Selouane, often for work.

What language do the Kebdana speak?

The Kebdana speak Tarifit, a Berber language of the Rif region. Their dialect is noted for its frequent use of the consonant 'l' in words, a feature recognized by other Riffian groups. The word 'timelalin' (eggs) is an example. Tarifit remains an important part of their identity, though migration has led to the use of other languages in urban areas.

The history of the Kebdana

Historical records mention the Kebdana as early as the writings of al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Wazzan, who described their territory as extending from the Moulouya River in the east to near Melilla in the west. El Bakri, another historian, identified them as the easternmost tribe of the Emirate of Nekor. Over time, the Kebdana have maintained their presence in the Rif, adapting to changes brought by migration and regional developments.

Kebdana life today

Today, the Kebdana community is spread between their traditional villages and urban centers in northeastern Morocco. Many have also migrated to Europe for work. Despite these changes, the Kebdana maintain cultural ties to their homeland, language, and traditions. Their dialect and community life continue to distinguish them within the broader Riffian and Berber populations.

Questions people ask about the Kebdana

Where do the Kebdana live?

The Kebdana live in Morocco, in the eastern Rif region, between Nador and Berkane, northeastern Morocco.

What language do the Kebdana speak?

The Kebdana speak Tarifit, which belongs to the Berber family of languages.

Sources and further reading

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Kebdana themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.

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