The Somali Bantu, also known as Jareer weyne, are a distinct ethnic group from Somalia. Historically, they faced discrimination and exclusion.

 

Following the collapse of the Somali government, many Somali Bantu families fled to refugee camps in Kenya and later resettled in countries including Canada.

 

The first Somali Bantu family arrived in Edmonton in 1997. Since then, the community has grown steadily.

 

Community members began supporting each other through gatherings and programs. Over time, this led to the creation of the Somali Bantu Cultural Enhancement Society of Alberta (SCSA) to support integration and preserve cultural identity.