Features of the Hausa Walled Architecture

Features of the Hausa Walled Architecture

1.A  Zanko- is a protrusion from the roo

d parapet; 

2.The dakis (rooms) are built based on the number of wives the man of the house (mai gida) has; 

3.Daki Girki/Madafa- the Kitchen is usually a separate building attached to the main building.

4.Rumfa-a shade, 

5.Shago-usually a place for a matured unmarried male which is separate from the main building.

6. Rijiya-a well at the centre of the house.

7.Zankwaye ’ (Pinnacles): inevitable feature of Hausa architecture coming in different shapes and sizes and imparting character and beauty to a traditional building.

8. Zaure:The main entrance hall opening to the street  which creates a separation between an outside public zone and a private inside.

9.Bishiya (Tree), majority of Hausa houses have (Mango, Neem or Date tree) depending on the size of the house

10. Indararo- the water drainage system on the top of the roofs.

11. Dakali: a place in the household where the head of the household receives male visitors and entertains them there. Political and social discourse are also held there.

 - Saidu Elder Argungu