For a better Kenya, ban all tribal clubs to save ‘wakosa kabila’

The atrocities committed in 2007 after the disputed elections are still fresh in our minds. We were divided on tribal lines, killed and maimed each other.

Over six years down the line, it seems we aren’t ready to learn from the deaths. It starts with Kenyan universities encouraging tribal gatherings. In almost all Kenyan public universities, you will find it legal that students are allowed to form groupings based on their tribes. This is where they speak their language discussing issues affecting their tribes.

Analysts argue it is right as it identifies one with his origin, but where do I belong considering that I am born of a Kikuyu mother and a Luhya father?

Born in Uasin Gishu County, parents tell me that’s my home. But when the leaders call up barazas in the village to discuss county development plans, they speak in their mother-tongue. Am I not supposed to contribute or hear what affects my daily life in the village? Is that really my home as I am told by my parents? It is not wrong to use mother-tongue, but can they also consider us? Through this, young Kenyans understand how other communities - a critical factor to peaceful co-existence.

Tribal accounts are rife in Facebook. You find a Facebook page “Kikuyus against Luos” or “Luos against the government”.  Verbal condemnation of tribalism is frequent, but tribalism is real and alive. Have Kenyans forgotten the nightmares of 2007?

It is time the government intervened to stop use of mother tongue in public functions, ban tribal groupings in universities and find ways to stop tribal gatherings online. That is the only way to save “wakosa kabila” like me and avoid bloodshed in coming elections.

Dancan Bwire, Maasai Mara University

Related Topics

tribalism PEV