POMP AND DANCE AS TIRIKI BOYS RETURN FROM THE FOREST AS MEN

On Wednesday, the Tiriki community celebrated a historic cultural event that takes place once every five years — the initiation of boys into manhood through circumcision.

After spending five weeks in the forest, the initiates — both young and older boys — triumphantly returned home as men who had successfully undergone the rite. They marched through the streets singing traditional war songs before converging at Shamakhokho grounds, where the celebrations reached their peak.

The event was graced by leaders from both Vihiga and Nandi counties, including Members of Parliament and the Governor of Vihiga.

Among the proud parents was Oliver Jumba, who had taken his son through the rite for the first time.

“I’m a proud father today, having accomplished what my forefathers did. I now salute my son for passing through this rite. May God bless him,” Jumba said.

His six-year-old son, Shawn Jumba, could not hide his excitement:

“I’m a big boy now. I feel great.”

The celebrations are not ending yet. Today, another group of initiates is expected to come out of the forest, marking yet another milestone for the community. Among the Tiriki, two distinct groups practice the circumcision ritual: Masero, who are deeply rooted in strict cultural traditions, and Vasomi, who take a more moderate approach. At times, their ideological differences have led to tensions and even clashes during the ceremonies.

Despite these differences, the Tiriki circumcision ritual has been passed down for generations, co-existing since the time of the forefathers. It remains one of the most respected and deeply valued cultural practices in the history of the Tiriki people.