The Sahrawi tribes of Morocco, from the powerful Reguibat confederation to the Tekna and Ouled Dlim, are not merely a cultural heritage; they form the backbone of governance, social cohesion, and alliances in the southern provinces. Their influence extends beyond the local sphere: understanding these tribal dynamics sheds light on the strategies of the Moroccan state in the Sahara, as well as the regional and international stakes tied to the stability and sovereignty of this strategic territory. The Sahrawi tribes of Morocco — including those settled in the southern provinces such as Laâyoune, Smara, Boujdour, Dakhla, Aousserd, Guelmim, and Tan-Tan — are intertwined with a rich tapestry of Arab, Berber, and Moorish ancestries. Their tribal structures are often based on age-old alliances, whether religious or military. Here are the key tribes: 1. The Reguibat (or Rgueibat) * The largest Sahrawi tribal confederation, traditionally nomadic, spanning Morocco, Mauritania, Algeria, and the Sahara. * They wield significant influence in regions like Smara, Aousserd, and Dakhla. * Composed of multiple factions, including: o Reguibat Sahel (Atlantic coast, Dakhla) o Reguibat Chorfa (of religious descent) o Reguibat Lebouihat o Reguibat Soueid o Reguibat Ahel Laachram o Reguibat Chark (East) o Reguibat Oulad Moussa 2. The Tekna * An Arab-Berber confederation located between Guelmim, Tan-Tan, and Tarfaya. * They serve as a vital link between the Souss region and the Sahara. * Renowned for their caravan trade and political influence since the 18th century. * Main factions include: o Aït Lahcen o Aït Yassin o Aït Oussa o Aït Baamrane (historically tied to the Tekna, though further north) o Azouafit 3. The Oulad Dlim * An Arab tribe of Maquil descent, prominently found in Laâyoune and Boujdour. * Deeply integrated into the social and religious fabric of the Sahara. * Many notable figures and leaders among the Moroccan Sahrawis hail from this tribe. 4. The Ouled Tidrarine * An Arab tribe from the Atlantic Sahara, predominantly around Dakhla. * Historically allied with the Reguibat and the Oulad Dlim. 5. The Aroussiyine (or Aaroussiyine) * Descendants of a Chorfa lineage (descendants of the Prophet). * Historically significant in religious and social domains. * Present in the regions of Smara, Laâyoune, and Guelmim. 6. The Izarguien * Though smaller in number, historically important in the area between Tan-Tan and Tarfaya. * Believed to be of Berber origin, they are integrated into the Sahrawi tribal network. 7. Other notable tribes and groups * Includes Aït Lahcen, Aït Moussa Ou Ali, Ouled Bou Sbaâ, Ouled Bouhya, Ouled Taleb, Ouled Tidrarine, Ouled Jerir, Ouled Delim, Aït Hmad, among others. * Certain families or religious (maraboutic) factions have played roles in mediation or Islamic education, especially around the zawiyas of Smara and Tiznit. In conclusion, the primary confederations shaping the Moroccan Sahara are: Reguibat, Tekna, and Oulad Dlim, around which religious (Aroussiyine), commercial, or warrior tribes revolve. Beyond traditions and lineages, the Sahrawi tribes are instrumental in structuring governance and social life in the Moroccan Sahara, showcasing how heritage and local organization bolster Morocco's stability and presence in its southern provinces.
