The forgotten People of Northern Kenya
American Chronicle, CA - August 8, 2007
The northern half of Kenya is a vast, sparsely populated desert. The dry shrub lands and rocky wasteland is home to some of Kenya’s most interesting people, such as the Borana-Oromo and Gabra-Oromo tribes. These tribes have been influenced very little by the west, and unlike the Maasai, have had very little contact with tourists as well. They live as they did years ago by herding livestock. The people as well as the awesome scenery make Northern Kenya a nice place to visit.
The current atmosphere between the tribes of Northern Kenya is very touchy, and tribal violence has become quite common. Livestock raids between some tribes have turned violent due to use of automatic weapons, and a vicious cycle of revenge killings has emerged. This is mainly a problem with tribes of Northern Kenya , but violence is also common east of lake, where bandits roam. The danger of bandits is so real that no one goes north of Samburu National Reserve without an armed escort.
Thinking about this expansive region, it is hurting to see the extent of neglect by successive regimes. Clearly no one and I mean no one has interest of developing that region. We have to put aside our difference and demand our share. I lost count how many times we have been promised that the Isiolo-Moyale road will be tarmacked. Soon it will be promised in the forth-coming by-elections. You should know that is a plain lie. Truth will only prevail if we ourselves stood together and demand for what is rightfully ours. This road is our right it’s not a privilege ...