Eventually, the Sudan Road became the major pilgrimage route between West Africa and the holy places. Today, nearly 127,000 Fulani live in western Sudan. The region of Sudan occupied by the Fulani contains vast grasslands where hippopotamuses, lions, and zebras roam. Among the Fulani, cattle are a man's most prized possession, as well as a means of survival. A man's wealth is determined by the number of cattle he owns.
Every young man desires advanced training in cattle herding.
Throughout the year, the Fulani nomads travel from place to place in search of new and better grazing lands for their herds. Each member of the family has specific duties. The men's responsibilities include herding the cattle, tending to political affairs, treating illnesses, and making plans for traveling. The young men and boys help their fathers tend to the herds. The women's duties include milking the cows, preparing butter and cheese, making the clothes and blankets, and preparing the daily meals.