The inaugural Virtual Samia Village Baraza has laid a strong foundation for our regeneration project, marking a key milestone in our collective mission to revive the spirit of communal dialogue. As Kenge Content Hive, we were privileged to host a vibrant exchange of perspectives, bringing together Samia youth, designers, and our strategic partners from Design Reparations in the Netherlands.
Traditionally, Barazas were community gatherings convened by elders or local leaders to address issues affecting the village — from conflict resolution, land use, and cultural preservation to moral guidance and collective decision-making. These gatherings served as open forums where wisdom was shared, consensus was built, and unity was maintained. In many ways, Barazas were the heartbeat of communal governance and the fabric that held society together.
Our session was graced by Mr. Charles Wakhaya, the Director of Culture for Busia County, whose firsthand experience with traditional Barazas offered invaluable historical grounding. His insights contextualized our modern initiative within the richness of our cultural heritage. Mr. Wakhaya not only endorsed the idea but also pledged the County Government’s support, challenging the youth to take up leadership in addressing emerging issues like climate change through creative, locally rooted solutions. This endorsement was reinforced by the passionate contributions of youth participants, who emphasized intergenerational equity — ensuring that the revival of Barazas benefits all members of society while restoring a sense of fairness and unity.
One memorable moment came from Bwire, a youth from Bumbe, who noted that today’s informal meeting points — such as boda boda stages, where people discuss football and community matters — could be natural starting points for reviving the Baraza spirit. Ryan, co-founder of Kenge Content Hive, built on this idea by suggesting the fusion of tradition and technology through Digital Barazas, where Samia youth from different areas can engage virtually to share insights and ideas.
What struck me most was how these reflections bridged generations and realities — how easily a casual conversation spot or an online meeting could evolve into a powerful space for dialogue and problem-solving. I left the session convinced that the village Baraza model can be revitalized as a tool for addressing contemporary challenges like climate change, while also preserving our cultural heritage and traditional knowledge that risk fading away.
The Virtual Samia Village Baraza reminded us that meaningful change often begins with a simple conversation — and that reconnecting as a community might just be our most powerful step toward a better, more united future.
— Article by Ian, Kenge Content
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