From Bula Barwaqo to a Better Wajir: Why We Must Choose Merit Over Tribe

 

This past weekend, WAJIR YOUTH FOR YOUTH AND DEVELOPMENT sat beneath the acacia trees of Bula Barwaqo with a circle of community elders, women, and youth—some seated on woven mats, others standing under the harsh sun, all with one purpose: to talk truthfully about leadership in Wajir.

For too long, many of us have voted not with our minds, but with our clan affiliations. Leaders are chosen based on who elders endorse, not what they’ve delivered. But the cracks are showing—our schools are struggling, water taps run dry, youth are unemployed, and women continue to be excluded from decisions that affect their daily lives.

As part of our CIVIC EDUCATION project, we asked a hard question: What if we held our leaders accountable, not by name, but by results?

The answers from the people were clear. “We want leaders who consult us,” said a mother of six. “Someone who will listen and act—not disappear after elections.” Youth shared their frustrations of being used as political tokens, only to be sidelined when decisions are made.

Our civic baraza in Bula Barwaqo wasn’t just a meeting—it was a turning point. We agreed: we must vote based on merit, performance, and vision. Not tribe. Not token promises.

The time has come for Wajir to rise. To choose leaders who represent our dreams—not just our clans. Through this project, we will continue to amplify grassroots voices, hold power to account, and build a culture of informed, inclusive governance—one baraza at a time.

We hope to proceed to more villages in the coming months