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Have you ever walked 21 kilometers under a blazing Norther Kenyan sun, side by side with camels who look like they’ve been planning this journey for years? I hadn’t either—until I participated in the Camel Caravan in Isiolo County from August 6th to 9th 2024 the year of our lord. What followed was a whirlwind of laughter, learning, and leg cramps (don’t worry, I survived). Here’s the scoop on this unforgettable adventure!
The journey began at Ngare ndare River, where 246 of us gathered—elders, women, youth, and some very nonchalant camels. Decked out in colorful shukas, we set off toward Kipsing town, 21 kilometers away.
The trek wasn’t just a stroll; it was a living testament to resilience. The sun was relentless, but so were we. Along the way, elders shared stories about the river’s history, youth cracked jokes about who would reach the finish line first, and the camels? They maintained their cool, chewing cud as if to say, “What’s the big deal?”
When we finally arrived at Kipsing, the celebrations erupted. Traditional dances, reenergizing music, and the aroma of freshly cooked meals made the air electric. Exhaustion melted away as we feasted and danced under the stars.
The second day was all about food—glorious, mouthwatering, traditional food. Each community brought their A-game, showcasing dishes prepared with love and expertise passed down through generations. Goats were the stars of the show, and their preparation was an art form.
Elders received the most tender cuts as a sign of respect, while women and youth worked magic in the cooking pots. There was nyirinyiri, a dried meat delicacy; mnono, a slow-cooked masterpiece; and even lessons on indigenous herbs. Sharing these dishes wasn’t just about eating—it was about connecting, celebrating, and honoring the land that provides for us.
The third day took on a more thoughtful tone, but that didn’t mean it was short on energy or passion. Under the generous shade of acacia trees, we divided into groups—elders, youth, women, and Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs)—ready to take on the big questions surrounding peace, conservation, and the future of our beloved Ewaso Nyiro River.
Each group brought their unique perspective to the table. Elders, with their decades of wisdom, shared insights on inter-community harmony and resource stewardship. The youth, buzzing with creativity, proposed ideas that blended tradition and modernity, while women championed the integration of Indigenous knowledge into conservation strategies. WRUAs, our guardians of water, presented practical approaches to protect the river and its catchment areas.
Together, we explored challenges and celebrated successes, crafting recommendations that were not only actionable but brimming with hope. By the end of the day, solutions and smiles were flowing as freely as the river we all came to protect.
The final day was a mix of bittersweet goodbyes and hopeful beginnings. Traditional songs echoed across the riverbank, camels trotted gracefully, and participants promised to carry the caravan’s spirit back to their communities.
As I packed my dusty shoes and waved goodbye to my new friends (both human and camel), I felt a deep sense of gratitude. This wasn’t just an event; it was a movement—a celebration of culture, a call for conservation, and a testament to the power of unity.
The Camel Caravan 2024 wasn’t about camels (okay, maybe a little) or just walking; it was about people. It was about preserving traditions, protecting the environment, and building bridges—between communities, generations, and even species.
So here’s to the Ewaso Nyiro River and the resilient spirits it nurtures. May the caravan keep moving, and may its impact ripple far and wide. And next year? I might just challenge a camel to a race. Wish me luck—I’ll need it!
Karionga Village
Jua Kali Centre – Nanyuki
P.O. BOX 499 – 10400
Nanyuki
Phone:
+25 472 454 0669
+25 472 266 3090
