Zuma is the leader of the Sand people and shares Planet Sand with another species called "the Sun people" (lead by Ramset). The Sand species are pacifists, relying on out-smarting enemies rather then out-gunning them.
Zuma and her 'kindred' are telepathic and telekinetic and are all part of a large collective. She is able to communicate with other species, and will offer advice or light the way home for her Alliance friends.
Even though the Sand people will not take up arms against the Beast, their presence is a great help to the Alliance none the less.