Kenyan Culture - The Gabbra

Found in the northern parts and the far west to Lake Turkana in Kenya and in Ethiopia, the Gabbra are naturally camel nomads who consider themselves just like the Borana although their neighbours who gave them their name don't think so. Their similarity to the Borana is quite evident though, especially their lifetyles.

The 43,000 Gabbra (pronounced GAH-brah) people live in the Chalbi desert in northern Kenya, between Lake Turkana to the west, Moyale district to the east, and Marsabit to the south.

The Gabbra are inseparably linked to their herds. Animals are more than just food; they are needed for sacrifices to ensure fertility, health, and co-operation from spirits. There is a stronger Muslim influence in some areas than others. The Gabbra traditionally believe in one God, whom they call "Waka."