Find out what it's like to visit Rendilleland in this
article.
Watch the movie trailer for
Banayye, Open Hand's film about an ancient Rendille myth.
Check out some
photos of Rendille life.
Open Hand is also working in
Jordan and
Bolivia. Or
click to see past and upcoming projects.
The Rendille are a unique people group living in the Kaisut desert of northern Kenya. Historically they are semi-nomadic camel herders, but today there are less than 30,000 Rendille—many of whom can no longer speak their language. In fact, their culture is so in danger of being lost that a major Nairobi radio station recently misidentified them as “extinct!” Today, regular droughts plague the community, a cholera outbreak occurred in June 2009, and few children are able to attend school.
However, Rendille themselves are speaking out and sharing their culture in response to these difficulties. Those who remain hope to share their story with other Kenyans and the world. Open Hand Studios is partnering with a Rendille Woman's Group from around Kenya on an awareness campaign to:
1. Celebrate Rendille culture by highlighting traditional dances, food, and
knowledge of the desert.
2. Create awareness about serious community issues like drought and education.
3. Raise funds to help meet needs Rendille people have identified as crucial to
their continuing existence.
OHS is also collaborating with Rendille on long-term efforts to create an independent cultural heritage center; publish a wide range of materials for the people as a whole; and share their unique knowledge with the rest of the world through a webpage and other creative media. A cultural night celebrating the Rendille will be happening in Nairobi in November. Check back for more details.