Kenya camping:Pokot a sub- tribe to Kalenjin community

Pokot is the sub- tribe to Kalenjin community where they are found in the northern part of the country. Some are likely inhabited at Loruk, is not far from Kampi ya samaki trading center in lake baringo.They are nomads, they move from one point to another in search of pasture and water.

LEADERSHIP

They are control by council of elders; they have well respected and honest old men who are appointed by the community so as to settled out dispute which might a raised in the society. They have rain makers who can tell the seasons of rain and drought.

HUTS

They have simple huts made from Grass, Mud, Cow dung and small branches

Only married women are responsible for building the huts, these houses are short with small windows and an open entrance. The roof is attached with grass while the walls are smired with cow dung. They make windows for ventilation and the doors are kept short to facilitate security and respect- when one enters has to bend to the entire entrances.These houses are multiple for several wives because it is a taboo for this community to marry many wives. Young girls sleep together with their parents whiles the older ones in a different hut. Boys are the men of tomorrow and they are force to sleep outside known as “Aperit” so as to safe guard the homestead. All livestock have different bomas only for the young ones have enclosed hut to protect them against rainfall and strong heat. They burn cow dung and other materials at night within their compound to act as mosquito’s repellant.

FOOD

The main stable food is milk, meat, wild fruit and grains. Milk is only for young children. They slaughter animals occasionally and collect blood so as to mix with milk for the Moran .Meat is not eaten randomly but there are specific parts women or men are not suppose to consume. For example front hide legs are for women while back hide legs for men. Women are warned not to eat the tongue because they believed they will speak a lot.In the wild there are same special food grains just like beans that needs long boiling example”Sirich”.This is done during drought time and most disadvantage it has bitter taste.

CIRCUMCISSION

It is an important function to this community where teenage boys and girls underwent this practice. It is only when the food plenty, Boys ands girls are circumcised at the same time but different venues. After a month later they are allowed to join the rest community. They are ready to marry.

MARRIAGE

It is a crucial event which needs organization from parents of both partners. The negotiations of wealth are made strictly where 40 goats, 20 sheeps, 10 cows and 7camels are enough payment for search function. During this period animals are slaughter and many ceremonies are done such as dancing, drinking and singing. Animal blood, cow dung and soft clay are necessary to make “sabana” (mixers is onto their heads both married lady and the man) to recognize them and given honor by the rest people.

BEDDINGS

They still used skin as matrees.the beds are constructed one meter above the surface to avoid flooding and provide security against snakes and  dangerous insects.

Peter K. Philip

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