They recount genealogical information and family events, laud the deeds of their patron's ancestors and praise their patrons themselves, as well as exhorting them to behave morally to ensure the honour of the family name. They also act as dispute mediators. Their position is highly respected and they are often trusted by their patrons with privileged information since the caste system does not allow them to rival nobles. The "jeli" class is endogamous, so certain surnames are held only by "jeliw": these include "Kouyaté", "Kamissoko", "Sissokho", "Soumano", "Diabaté" and "Koné".