Susu people

The Susu people (Susu: Soso; French: Soussou) are a major Mande ethnic group living primarily in Guinea. Smaller communities are also located in the neighboring country of Sierra Leone. The Susu are descendants of the thirteenth century Mali Empire. They moved to their present location after 1725, when the Fulani attempted to dominate them in the Fouta Jalon.

The Susu people are farmers, traders and fishermen. The Susu live mainly in the coastal areas of Guinea and Sierra Leone. Their houses are made with mud or cement blocks, and thatched or tin roofs depending on their means.

Customs and culture

Family is very important in Susu society. The Susu often live with their extended family. Polygyny is an accepted practice since Islamic law allows men to have as many as four wives. This is not always practiced because having multiple wives requires more means than most men have. The men provide for their families by working the rice fields, fishing, or engaging in commerce. The women cook the food and take care of the children. They often engage in a small commerce, usually of vegetables they have raised in their own garden. Often women will have their own room or hut next to their husband's lodging where they will stay with their children.