Hi
An interesting topic, that I have given some thought to and make a few comments :-
Tribal societies in the past tended to be very conservative and their customs and material culture could remain almost unchanged for centuries. Change might only occur when a dynamic and energetic individual came on the scene (eg. King Shaka), or when the tribal society came into contact with a more advanced culture (eg European colonialism & Arab infiltration into East Africa).
An example of lack of change would be the isolated Australian aborigines.
Tribes would often adapt the customs and culture of more powerful and dominant neighbours, eg the Kikuyu adopted the weapons and ornaments of the Masai and the Tsonga adopted the weapons and headring of the Zulu.
Tribal forms of material culture such as dagger shapes, costume, hairstyles etc., became "indicators of ethnic identity". Weapons would often become an important part of male costume, and a sort of adornment and display.
Regarding Beja daggers, I feel the most likely source of influence would be Ancient Egypt. The "S" shaped blade is similar to the Egyptian sword "khepesh". (see attached image). Other examples are - the Sudanese throwing stick "trombash" is almost identical to the Ancient Egyptian throwing stick, as depicted in tomb paintings. The Ancient Egyptian headrest form is to be found down the Nile valley, also lyre and harp musical instruments. The pronounced "X" shaped Beja hilts might just be an exaggeration of the traditional Arab dagger hilt with expanded ends to the grip, such as the Omani jambiya. Such exaggerations of established forms could again reinforce ethnic identity and display.
Just a few ideas to ponder...
Regards
Colin
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