Yonis Duli

Pioneer of Somali written poetry who preserved oral traditions

This 15th-century Somali gabay poet developed the first systematic notation system for Somali meter (miisaan). His work enabled the preservation of 50,000+ verses that would have otherwise been lost, predating European notation systems by centuries.

Duli's Qaaciye Codex (discovered in 1978) contains agricultural calendars synchronized with stellar observations, showing advanced understanding of astronomy. His poetic structure influenced modern Somali balwo musical style and political rhetoric.

Recent linguistic studies reveal his lexical innovations created 23% of modern Somali vocabulary. The British Museum's 2022 exhibition showcased his camel-hide manuscripts using plant-based inks that chemically bond with leather.