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samburu rites of passage
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<br> 18-year old Barunye treks to sacred Lake Kizyma to gather water that will be combined with milk, and poured over him as a cleansing prior to circumcision.<br> A gourd for carrying milk and water, along with a machete and axe, undergo a ritual blessing prior to use in the ceremonies.<br> Boys learn to make their own bows and arrows and hunt birds as part of initiation rituals prior to circumcision. A beaded headdress is given to them by their Mother as recognition of their success. <br> Thousands of people from all over the Samburu District come together for the rituals, which become a festive event with many periods of singing and dancing.<br> <br>A boy is doused with milk and water from sacred Lake Kizyma as a cleansing prior to circumcision.<br> <br>18-year old Barunye undergoes circumcision. His Father plays a role of honor behind him by holding his shoulders.<br> Three brothers decorate themselves with red ochre as part of their final stage toward becoming "Moran" (Warrior).<br> A 9-year-old boy beams with pride after making it through the circumcision rituals and becoming "Moran" (Warrior).<br> Tribal elders are the leaders of events surrounding the ritual. They lead the boys through various exercises in order to make sure they are ready for this eagerly anticipated rite of passage. <br>
© Copyright Toni Greaves 2010. All Rights Reserved.
