Afghan Biographies

Safi Tribe


Name Safi Tribe
Ethnic backgr. Pashtun
Date of birth
Function/Grade Background
History and Biodata

The Pashtun Safi Tribe members historically have been one of the most dissident tribes in Afghanistan, with a major uprising against the central government in 1945-1946.Safi tribe originating in the Kohi Safi district of Parwan province, and also makes up majority in the Pech Valley of Kunar, Afghanistan, and is present in smaller numbers in Mohmand and Bajaur Agency, FATA, Pakistan. Currently Safi tribesmen are all around Afghanistan and include the founder of Safi Airways and the Safi Landmark Hotel.

The tribe is divided into three clans, the Gorbuz, the Massoud and the Wadir. The three clans were divided politically during the communist era. In large part the Wadir Safis were aligned with the communists and served in the government. Many Safi mujahedin leaders came from the Gorbuz clan. The Massoud clan, however, was split between both sides. The exact population number of this clan is not known; however, it is estimated to be around 2.5 million, both in Afghanistan and in Federally Administered Tribal Areas of Pakistan.

Currently Safi tribesmen are all around Afghanistan and include the founder of Safi Airways and the Safi Landmark Hotel.  Safis have played an important role in the Afghan society, especially in Afghan Governments and also were known to be against the kings. The Safis have had an important role on the other side of the Durand Line as well. On September 10, 2007 Safi elders of Mohmand Agency played an important role on reaching an agreement with Taliban fighters to stop attacks on Pakistani military, security forces, and government installations such as schools, and hospitals, etc. in Mohmand Agency.

Last Modified 2012-04-11
Established 2010-10-17