66 Umoji village visit

The same day we arrived back from Sambura National Reserve, I had the opportunity to visit the Umoja Women’s Cultural Village which lay just outside our camp. Monica elected to go along with me. We were escorted by a woman dressed in her beautiful cultural costume, who took us to the entrance of the camp where we were joined by some other women. They started to sing, and as we strolled along towards their village, other women, equally beautifully dressed joined in. What a magical feeling. Once at the camp, they continued singing, giving us a great performance. I really admire how they put in the same energy for us as they would for a whole bus load of tourists.
Once that was over, we were welcomed to the village by the chief, and then given a background to the place. It had been formed to give protection to women who had suffered in the community. Whether it be divorces, beaten wives or widows, many found a refuge here, where they could bring up their children in a supportive and safe environment. We had a look inside one of the huts, which was actually very cool and spacious. The floor of the sleeping area was covered in animal hides. Then we were taken to see the school. While school had finished, a number of children were roped in to provide students for our visit. They too gave us a nice welcome song and were handsomely rewarded with stickers. Some of the younger ones were fascinated by my hairy arms, one exclaiming “it’s soft!”
Of course, there was the traditional sales opportunity at the end of the visit, with various souvenirs on display for us to purchase. Monica bought a bracelet in exchange for the right to photograph them all individually.
And then the visit was over, but even here they took care of us, walking us slowly back to the camp, singing a song as the sun went down on the horizon. Another epic day in Africa!
#oasisoverland #kenya #Sambura

Видео 66 Umoji village visit канала Paul Artus