The Strength & Beauty of Strength of the Amazigh Woman
Amazigh circa.1800 Amazigh - February, 2022
Ancient History:
For centuries the “Amazigh” (Berber) women were famed for their beauty as well as for their energy, strength and heavy work load.
Throughout their history, these women have played a vital role in the development of Amazigh society by influencing the struggle for the improvement of the social and cultural positions of Amazigh women.
Early 17th century a female Amazigh leader name 'Dihya' - Al Kahina put up fierce resistance to the Arab conquerors of her time. And her stride empowered women to contribute to the economy such as, weaving, pottery and oil making which ultimate provided independence for Amazigh women.
The argan tree represents a symbol of inspiration for perseverance, patience, and love for land, history, and culture.
The Tradition Lives On
Today, Imazighen women are still the backbone of the Moroccan society. They generate income, raise children, look after their families’ needs, tend their sheep, and deal with all the daily challenges that arise. In addition, they wild harvest, and source argan oil while working in a ‘cooperative’, and hand produce the most authentic argan with a sweet nutty flavor and smell.
There are still approximately 3000 cooperatives that employ 2.2 million women.
However, mechanically extracted oil production has started, with the industrial scale driving down prices, impacting the small co-operatives. In many cases that’s the argan with additives that you’ll find and have been using from the big box stores. By purchasing this argan at Native Wild Living you will support good and honest women gain financial independence enabling them to send their children to school. And for water.
Native Wild Morocco is proud to pay homage to the Imazighen women through our brand label.
Watch the quick video below on how Argan is made using the traditional method in a stone mill.