Umoja, a small village located in the grasslands of Samburu, northern Kenya was founded in 1990 by 15 survivors of rape by British soldiers, and today acts as a sanctuary for local women escaping “cultural norms” including child marriage, female genital mutualization, domestic violence and even rape; and it currently inhabits 47 women and 200 children. It is one of the few matriarchal societies, and is the only area where men are forbidden to live, but an exception includes children, as boys can live here but once they turn 18 they must leave. Although men are forbidden to live here, the women still enjoy healthy sexual relationships with men (even unmarried women — which is abnormal for Kenya).
As a means of survival, the women live frugally but earn regular incomes through the learning of trade, the making and selling of jewellery to tourists, and even charging modest entrance fees to the visitors; Upon arrival, tourists are greeted with joyous dancing and singing which are pivotal for the Kenyan culture. Umoja is regarded as a safe haven as it allows for females to live in a place where they can raise their children, live without fear of male violence and discrimination, as well as enjoy a modest and safe life.
Written By Sahar Baraki
Arwork by Izzy Johns
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