The Amazigh, Libya’s largest minority group, celebrated on Sunday “Yennayer”, the first day of the agrarian calendar year used since ancient times by the group throughout North Africa.
Joyful festivities have begun in many Libyan cities which recognize Yennayer as a national and public holiday. People took to streets to celebrate, serve traditional food, play music, and share happy moments.
The Amazigh people, in particular those in the country side, find in this occasion a better chance to socialize, exchange meals, and seek reconciliation with those they have had some disagreements.
The history of Yennayer traces back to 950 BC, when the Amazigh nation defeated the Pharaoh army and conquered Egypt. Under the leadership of Chachanq, the Amazighs were able to establish a new monarchy that ruled from Libya to Egypt. This glorious victory marked the beginning of the Amazigh date.
