Since it was established over 30 years ago, Umoja has provided refuge for women from the Samburu community and survivors of female genital mutilation, domestic abuse or child marriage.
“I used to be treated unfairly, but now I feel free,” said Christine Sittian, a 26-year-old mother of four who left her marriage because her husband physically assaulted her.
Losing hope in the relationship, she first tried to return to her home village, but the cattle used as dowry to secure her marriage were stolen.
“When I went back home, I was simply sent back to my husband because my mother didn’t have livestock to give back,” said Sitien, who was dressed in a kaleidoscope of beads typically worn by Samburu women. Had happened His only option was to go to Umoja.