Tribalism, ethnicity, and nepotism are a major disease in Africa. Since colonialism the above epidemic has been rampant everywhere in Africa. The fallacy is that tribalism will fade away with the older generation. I strongly disagree. The up-coming younger generation, who are more educated, are still following the negative, tribal footsteps of their parents, and grand-parents.
In Kenya, unfortunately, we may always get presidents from the major tribes – the Kikuyu, Luo, and the Kalenjin. Happy will be the day when Kenya gets a president from a minority tribe like the Borana, Turkana, or Samburu. If this miracle happens, it means that Kenyans will not be voting along tribal lines, but according to merit.
Further still, it is noticeable that during elections, Kenyans cocoon themselves to their tribe. Neighbors, who had been friends for a very long time, immediately become deadly enemies – all because of tribe. Individuals, who were deep comrades, turn against each other, maiming, or even killing each other, all because of tribal power.
It is a fact that for a long time, Kenya will be dominated by presidents from the major tribes. Well, the existing government should distribute power evenly, so that even the minority tribes are included, and feel to be part of Kenya. Many of the ethnic groups from the northern frontier feel isolated. Their level of education is low because there are limited schools and other facilities.< /p>
About the ‘Nyumba kumi’ initiative, I still have my doubts. Okay, it is good because there will be collective security. All the same, I am in doubt because some neighbors will be hell bent on spying on their neighbors. They will get to know how their neighbors live, thus gaining many secrets. These events then lead to further insecurity.
Africa in general, and Kenya, in particular has a long way to go as pertains to tribalism, ethnicity, and nepotism. These vices cause underdevelopment.
KENNETH JOHN TOMLINSON
Nanyuki
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