Bajuni Council of Elders: Uniting a Displaced Community and Building a Promising Future

In the year 1960, the Bajuni community living in the areas of Rubu, Shanga Mwambore, Simambae, and Mvundeni along the Kenya-Somalia border found themselves caught in the midst of the Shifta War. Fearing the threat of the shiftas, they were forced to abandon their fertile lands and belongings, seeking refuge in various parts of the country and beyond. Some settled in Pate Island, cultivating the villages of Shanga Rubu and Shanga Ishakani.

Others found solace in Ngomeni, Malindi, Watamu, Kilifi County, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, and even Kampala, Uganda.

The displacement brought about a lack of leadership structure within the Bajuni community, leaving them feeling adrift and in need of guidance. Recognizing the urgent need for unity and empowerment, Hon Omar Sharif, the current Bajuni Council of Elders founder, took up the task of bringing the scattered community together. In the year 2020, under his leadership, the Bajuni Council of Elders was formed.

''After seeing my people scattered and had No leadership structure I said its time to unite this small tribe and have a voice that us why I came up with Bajuni Council of Elders'' Said the Bajuni kingpin 

The Bajuni Council of Elders had a two-fold mandate. Firstly, it aimed to unite the Bajuni community, bridging the geographical gaps that had separated them. Secondly, it sought to empower the community economically by providing skills training, ensuring access to quality education, and improving healthcare services. 

''The council had no time; we had to move with speed and first  Unite this community which it was not easy secondly empower them in order to be independent and run their day to day economic activities '' He added 

In 2022, Hon Sultan Omar Sharif, a visionary leader revered for his dedication to the Bajuni cause, was officially crowned as the Bajuni Sultan. This prestigious title bestowed upon him the responsibility of safeguarding the unity and welfare of the Bajuni nation. As the spokesperson for the community, Sultan Omar Sharif pledged to represent their interests and aspirations on a national level.

''I Will knock every door to make sure this community get what is theirs from land which they left it in fear of shiftas to the Education of their children and their political formation.'' He said 

One of the Sultan's crucial roles is overseeing the political landscape within the Bajuni community. To ensure their collective strength, he aims to prevent the community from losing their political influence by supporting one candidate for political office instead of multiple contenders.

''We are not ready to loose what is ours because of political greediness we must speak with one voice.'' Said the Sultan 

In a letter dated October 11, 2023, the National Heroes Council of Kenya recognized Sultan Omar Sharif's exceptional contributions and bestowed upon him the title of a national hero. Further, he was invited to join the President in commemorating the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kericho County. This acknowledgment solidifies Sultan Omar Sharif's unwavering commitment to the Bajuni community and his tireless efforts to uplift and unite them.

As the Bajuni Council of Elders and Sultan Omar Sharif continue to work towards a united and prosperous future for the Bajuni community, their journey serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of a people who have overcome displacement to rebuild their lives.