GARKUWA Complete Hausa Novel Document by GARKUWA

In a vast Fulani settlement abundant with the blessings of the earth.  

There is a portion that God has specially blessed for Ardo Babayo's settlement, with exceptional grace—home to skilled Fulani herders of Cameroon.

One Friday evening, as the herders were returning home, each livestock—cows, sheep, camels, goats, and bulls—headed toward their respective pens.  

Ardo Babayo’s herd is one of the most unique in the entire African continent,  

with no less than forty herders tending to it.  

The surroundings began to darken, signaling the onset of the cold rainy season. The lush greenery and flowing streams gave Babayo’s settlement a radiant beauty.  

Some elders sat under a Ceɗiya tree at the entrance of Ardo Babayo’s home. Among them was a fair-skinned, well-built man seated in their midst, surrounded by other prominent figures.  

To his right sat a large-hearted man, exuding generosity, dignity, and deep faith. They were deep in discussion about matters concerning their lives.  

Suddenly, Ardo Babayo raised his eyes and glanced to his right, where he spotted four young boys chasing a large Boleru bird. The oldest, about 15, led the group, followed by a 13-year-old, then an 11-year-old, and finally the youngest, not less than 9. They ran with all their might, closing in on the bird, which flapped desperately but couldn’t take flight—likely due to a large egg it carried.  

Its frantic running was a fight for survival.  

Ardo Babayo opened his mouth to speak but then turned his gaze to a young girl, about 8 years old, sitting on the lap of the man beside him.  

Suddenly, with urgency and a commanding tone, she stretched out her hand and said:  

(*"Acce mo"*) "Leave it!" Then she turned to the man holding her, her face filled with fear, pity, and distress, saying:  

(*"Appa a vi'a ɓe acca tokkugomo nɓe naunanmo"*) "Father, they say they will hurt it!"  

Ardo Babayo smiled and replied:  

"Gainako, leave it—they should take it easy."  

Quickly, the one called Gainako responded:  

"Baffa Giɗaɗo said we should catch it and slaughter it."  

Suddenly, they turned to the girl, hearing a sharp cry from her as she yelled:  

"They’re going to slaughter me! Father, tell them not to slaughter me! Look, they’ve already hurt my hand—it’s bleeding!"