The Borana

 

The Borana are semi-nomadic. An average settlement may consist of eight or nine homesteads, a large one of up to forty. A homestead consists of the man who is the head of his family and all his dependents. The Borana move these settlements seasonally to find the best balance of grazing and water, movements that are strategic for survival.
 

The Borana people live in a semi arid area where water is scarce. To supply their cattle (and themselves) with this precious liquid when there is no surface water, they dug wells by hand up to 30 meters deep. These wells made it possible for the Borana people to survive for centuries under harsh conditions. It is an impressive sight to see a well operating. Man and woman form an human chain down in the well passing buckets between them to bring up the water. Meanwhile there is a loud chorus of singing to keep the rhythm going. Animals waiting for their turn to drink.

 

The local authority of the Borana tribe, the Gadaa system, is very strong but has been prohibited under various ruling governments.. The system organizes the Borana society into groups (about 7-11) that assume different responsibilities in the society every eight years. It has guided the religious, social, political and economic life of the Borana for many years. Under the Gadaa system, the power to administer the affairs of the tribe and the power to make laws belong to the people. Many representatives come together to make decisions and to create a "checking and balancing" system.

 

The Borana practice polygamy. Most men have at least two wives; some have more. Family units are close knit; fathers are gentle and caring toward small children. Divorce and separation is fairly common. Cattle and camels are the main source of wealth, and are used to pay the bride price, for religious sacrifices, and legal fines.