MARSABIT – For the first time in 31 years, the ancient tradition uniting the Borana Karayu and Gabra Algana clans has been revived, marking an emotional and historic moment for Marsabit County.
The last sacred cultural exchange was held around 1995. Years of drought, conflict and insecurity interrupted a practice observed for generations. But this week history came full circle as elders embraced once again at Yaa Algana in El Gathe, North Horr Constituency.
The revival began earlier at Dharitu near Yabalo, Ethiopia in 2024, where the Algana Gadoom visited the Karayu Yaa. They presented eight camels and eight ram as elders performed customary rites.
Leaders described the arrival of Karayu representatives in North Horr as the fulfillment of that cultural promise, as the Karayu Yaa paid the return visit to the Naabo of Yaa Algana, completing a cultural journey that had remained unfinished for more than three decades.
“This is the Marsabit we want to build, a county where communities do not live in fear of one another, but in respect, brotherhood and shared prosperity,” Marsabit County Governor, Mohamud Ali said.
“Witnessing elders embrace after 31 years is proof that peace does more than end conflict. It restores relationships, preserves heritage and reconnects communities to their shared identity.” He added.
Elders explained that the cultural practice is founded on mutual respect and reciprocity. It is only considered complete when the Algana Gadoom visits the Karayu Yaa, and in return, the Karayu Gadoom visits the Algana Yaa.
They said modern challenges had eroded systems that once held communities together, but the renewed interaction confirmed that Algana and Karayu share one lineage and common ancestry.
Governor Ali, who is serving his final term, said his administration remains committed to leaving behind a peaceful, cohesive and united Marsabit.
“I commend all leaders, elders and peace champions whose efforts have created an environment where such priceless traditions can flourish again,” he said. “May we continue to safeguard the peace that enables our diverse communities to celebrate their heritage.”
Governor Ali said the county government will continue supporting initiatives that unite all Marsabit communities, including Gabra, Borana, Rendille, Burji, Sakuye, Garre, Somali, Dasanach and Turkana.
North Horr MP Wario Guyo and Moyale MP Prof. Guyo Wako lauded the cultural exchange, saying it opened a new chapter in unity between Gabra and Borana.
They commended Karayu elders who traveled from Kenya and Ethiopia for the meeting, and urged all leaders to support peace efforts.
The MPs warned residents against rumours, hate speech and political incitement, saying development cannot thrive where communities are divided.
Former North Horr MP Francis Chachu Ganya urged communities to reject leaders who divide people for political gain. He praised Governor Ali for uniting communities and ensuring fairness in resource distribution.
Chachu called on residents to take personal responsibility for peace by refusing to shelter criminals and resisting divisive politics.
Governor Ali reiterated that his administration will continue supporting initiatives that unite all communities in Marsabit, including Gabra, Borana, Rendille, Burji, Sakuye, Garre, Somali, Dasanach, and Turkana.
MCAs present thanked the Governor for supporting the meeting, saying culture and elders remain central to resolving disputes in Marsabit.
Other speakers said drought and insecurity had pushed communities apart, but the meeting had helped Algana and Karayu reconnect with their shared ancestry. They said both communities share great grandfathers and must now use culture to unite the wider Gabra and Borana.
Professionals and youth leaders were urged to learn from elders and refuse to be used as tools of violence.
The event was also attended by, NEMA Director General Mamo Boru, MCAs, Gabra professionals, the Karayu Qaliti and her delegation from Ethiopia, and members of Yaa Algana and Yaa Karayu.
