makonde community — Kenyan government recognizes ‘outsider’ tribe as citizens

In February 2016, over 1,000 people from the Makonde community were recognized as citizens by the Kenyan government. Having originated from Mozambique more than 80 years ago, the community was not acknowledged as legally part of Kenya. This policy – encouraging tribal tolerance – means that the Makonde are now officially recognized as Kenya’s 43rd tribe, and can now obtain identity cards, allowing them to vote and enjoy public services.