The Village That Forbids Men
Located in northern Kenya, Umoja village at first glance looks no different from tribal settlements in Africa except for this one There were no men in sight, only women and girls. Umoja means solidarity – a core concept of this community.
Founded in 1990. this is where women of all ages who have been victims of violence live family or being sexually abused or fleeing child marriage.
They have experienced terrible memories and many of them were abandoned by their families. The reason men are “banned” from coming here is to create a safe living space for women and girls.
Because of strict regulations, the Ghanaian male photographer had many difficulties to access. After explaining very clearly why he wanted to go to the village to learn about life and show people the photos he had taken, Paul was allowed to enter.
Life is simple but rich. love
When approaching the people of Umoja village, photographer Paul found that they lived very simply. Women here make a living by raising cows and goats and selling handicrafts to tourists. They are also regularly educated about women’s rights as well as acts of violence.
Located not far from the village is a campsite where many guests travel stop to explore the floating Maasai Mara wildlife reserve Kenyan language.
If tourists want to visit Umoja village, they must buy an entrance ticket or buy handicrafts created by the women in the village.
With a set of photos about “The village without a sign of men” photographer Paul wants to “raise awareness about social issues that inspire people”.
Life in Umoja village is quite “frugal” and only has enough necessities. The weakest, but those who have come here hardly want to leave.
Mary, a 34-year-old woman, was sold by her family to an 80-year-old man in exchange for a cow when she was 16 years old. . But luckily she was able to escape and come here.
“I don’t want to leave this community because Umoja has given me everything I need” Mary confided.
According to This woman Umoja is a place where women protect each other, share love and take care of their children. This place gives them safety, autonomy and control over their lives.
“Every day I smile happily when I wake up” a resident of Umoja village named Norkorchom shares his feelings about life “without men.
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