No Men’s Land – A Women Only Village

In a country struggling with sexual violence and gender inequality, a surprising safe haven for women has emerged: Umoja, the first all-women’s village in Kenya.

Founded more than two decades ago by 15 rape survivors, Umoja—located 230 miles north of the capital of Nairobi—has become a refuge for women escaping from domestic violence, rape, child marriage, and female genital mutilation. Today, Umoja has a population of 47 women and 200 children who have created a completely self-sustaining community. The women run a nearby camp for safari tourists and visitors, sell handmade jewelry and crafts in the village, and host educational outreach performances at surrounding villages, helping teach other women about their rights. [MORE]