Final answer:
The Wodaabe people are historically related to the Berbers of North Africa. They are known for their vibrant cultural dances such as the geerewol and yaake, which have become a source of income through tourism but also raise concerns of cultural commodification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Wodaabe people, featured in Herzog’s documentary Wodaabe: Herdsmen of the Sun, are historically related to the Berbers (Amazigh) of North Africa. The Wodaabe are part of the larger Fulani (Fulbe) ethnic group, widely spread across the Sahel and West Africa, encompassing many countries including Mali, Niger, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The Wodaabe nomads are particularly known for their colorful and elaborate rituals such as the geerewol and yaake dances, where young men compete to be chosen by the young women judges based on their beauty and dancing skills.
These cultural practices contribute significantly to the Wodaabe's income through tourism and have sparked international interest, leading to the community being featured in various media such as National Geographic and Elle magazine. However, there is concern among anthropologists regarding the potential commodification of their culture and the impacts of tourism on the authenticity and sustainability of their traditions.