The Afar People's Timeless Info System

Dagu is the traditional oral information system of the Afar people in Ethiopia and surrounding regions. For centuries, it has served as a decentralized communication network — long before the internet or smartphones existed. News travels through word of mouth, passed from one traveler or community member to another, ensuring that everyone — even in the most remote areas — stays informed.

In Dagu, accuracy and reliability are vital. Individuals are expected to report only what they’ve seen firsthand or verified directly. This peer-to-peer model builds a culture of trust and accountability. Through Dagu, the Afar people share updates about weather patterns, livestock conditions, market prices, conflicts, and even safe paths through the desert.

What makes Dagu remarkable is its real-time nature and community enforcement. It isn't just folklore — it's an active, living protocol for survival, social order, and knowledge-sharing. In an age driven by digital media, Dagu stands as a powerful example of indigenous innovation that’s efficient, resilient, and deeply human.