In the vibrant tapestry of Kenyan culture, the Akorino stands out as a unique and intriguing group. Instantly recognizable by their signature white turbans, members of the Holy Ghost Church of East Africa embody a blend of Christian beliefs and African spiritual traditions. Their distinctive attire, coupled with their emphasis on purity, humility, and strict adherence to biblical teachings, has made them a fascinating and integral part of Kenyan society.
The Akorino movement emerged in the early 20th century, drawing inspiration from Christian missionaries while incorporating indigenous spiritual practices. “The name ‘Wakorino’ originates from the question ‘Who are the Wakorino?’ – in Kikuyu, it translates to ‘Wakori no,’ meaning ‘who are they?'” explains Mr. Amos Wahome Mureithi, an Akorino member.
Central to their faith is a commitment to a life of purity and humility. Akorinos are known for their disciplined prayer life, pacifism, and rejection of worldly pleasures. The white turban, worn by both men and women, symbolizes purity and their dedication to God. Their modest attire reflects their humility and focus on spiritual matters. The women wear long dresses, which in most cases have elegant prints. In a society that glorifies careless dressing in the name of the infamous parody; ‘’My dress my choice,’’ by the activist women of Kenya, they truly stand out as modesty.
However, the Akorino have faced challenges and misconceptions. Some have labeled them a “cult,” primarily due to their strict adherence to their beliefs and practices, including their dress code and social restrictions. These aspects, while central to their faith, can sometimes lead to social isolation, as members may feel pressure to conform to group norms and limit interactions with those outside the group. It’s often a noticeable fact that they tend to keep to themselves, like birds of the same feather flocking together.
Mr. Mureithi acknowledges these concerns but emphasizes that the Akorino view these practices as essential to their faith and a source of strength and community. He points to examples of Akorino members who have migrated to countries like the USA, where individual freedoms are highly valued, yet they continue to uphold their faith and traditions, demonstrating that their beliefs are not compatible with modern life.
The white turban is arguably the most recognizable symbol of the Akorino. It is more than just an accessory; it represents a sacred covenant with God. Earning the right to wear the turban is a profound spiritual journey involving rigorous prayer, fasting, and a dedicated commitment to living a life of faith. It serves as a constant reminder of their commitment to God and their distinct identity within Kenyan society.
Despite facing stereotypes and misconceptions, the Akorino remain a vital part of Kenyan culture. Their unwavering faith and commitment to their values which serve as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs while respecting the diversity that enriches our nation.
Mr. Mureithi urges those with preconceived notions about the Akorino to reconsider their views. He highlights the Akorino’s law-abiding nature, their emphasis on raising respectful and responsible children, and their contribution to a more peaceful and harmonious society. He appeals to other religious organizations to emulate their respect for the law and encourage their members to do the same thus contributing to a safer and more prosperous future for Kenya.
Peter Kimani, another member of the Akorino faith said they encourage their children to marry within the same faith for a continuity of their religion and for harmony within the family. He noted that those who have tried to get married to people of other religious beliefs, have sometimes suffered isolation, and in extremes cases domestic feuds because of their modesty and exclusive prayer lives that are quite lengthy and include groaning to the Saviour to lead and protect them from the evils of this strange world.
He noted that in the past, they were mainly accused of not taking their children to school, but nowadays their children attend school and apart from their many graduates, some of their children have acquired the highest level of education and they are professors. However, he said education doesn’t change the religious beliefs of their children, unlike other denominations where their children either ignore the creed under which they have been brought up, or they simply quit at university level or once they get employed.
His earnest appeal to society, especially those who espouse Christianity is to adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ and reject the enticement and allure of the negativity of the western world that has permeated African communities.
He regretted the poor dressings of young girls and in some cases mature women who have chosen to walk half naked in the name of modernity, leading to Africans being a laughing stalk by others races.
He gave an example of the Indian women who have kept their elegant sari dress despite having been colonized by the British for 89 years, many more years than the Africans. And, above all they rejected the religion of their colonizers and continued with Hinduism, which ultimately has earned them respect from the western world.
He concluded that any worship that doesn’t maintain the culture of a people, is always more likely to derail them, because their thinking and the observance of praying in an extraneous or foreign ethos creates a lot of confusion.
By Veronica Bosibori and Nicole Kaveva