Set within semi-arid rural lands of Marsabit county, close to the north eastern border of Kenya and Ethiopia, Karare is home to the pastoralist communities of Samburu, Rendille and Turkana tribes.
Decades of tradition and culture define roles and responsibilities within families and the community as well as opportunity and expectation. Multiple wives and numerous children are the norm for many families, increasing the burden and expectations on first born or eldest girls.
Dotted across the landscape, manyattas encompass traditional built houses, sometimes including extended family members, always alongside their herds of cattle, sheep and goats. Prolonged droughts and destruction of living habitats for animals and birds creates greater conflict between humans and wildlife, both competing for water and food within the diminishing habitat. As daily chores force them further away from the security of the manyatta, the risk of being attacked by elephants, hyena and leopard is high.
For most girls, daily chores of fetching water and firewood as well as caring for younger siblings impede their ability to focus on homework and further revision. Girls are the first to be withdrawn from school when older siblings or parents move further away from the family home to secure grazing or a small financial income.
Despite greater awareness of the value of education, many girls in Karare are vulnerable to dropping out of school at the age of 12 – 13 years either in preparation for marriage, through teenage pregnancy or simply a failure to appreciate longer term investment in her education. When most parents did not complete their own education, they have little appreciation for guidance of teachers and are unable to assess progress in academic report books.
Since 2015 Stephen and Ellie have worked tirelessly with the community, the elders, their respective families and key individuals to enhance their understanding of complexity of problems, to respect tradition and culture whilst finding ways to challenge those which cause harm. Following initial consultation and engagement, the community gave their blessing for Amuka Foundation to establish itself within Karare. At every stage of developing programme activities, we continue to engage with the community representatives ensuring transparency and accountability.
For those who were born in Karare and later fled to Nairobi to realise career dreams, we encourage them to give something back, to support others through mentorship and guidance as well as funding activities.