Lodoto Alupe

Born in Baragoi, a small town east of the dry Suguta Valley, Lodoto Alupe fondly remembers one favourite game the Turkanan version of ‘tag.’ Unlike the usual version, she narrated that the game was a mix of fun and functionality. The fastest child was chased, and once tagged, they would rush to a designated tree to claim victory. After the chase, the children would move on to another part of their game, where they would gather sticks, stones, and gravel to build mock houses. Boys and girls played together, with the boys selecting “wives,” while those left behind assumed the role of in-laws. The young husbands would then set off to hunt, trying their luck at catching rodents or birds to bring back for their pretend families.

However, Alupe's childhood innocence was abruptly cut short. Forced out of Baragoi by police officers without explanation, she was caught by the attention of one of the officers, who soon became her husband. As their relationship grew, Alupe found herself living as a police wife, moving from place to place with her husband and their five children. Eventually, they settled in Isiolo County on a small piece of land.

Now in her eighties, Alupe still lives in that same plot. Around her house, the land is dotted with dry, branch-like shrubs, but these are not just random plants. They mark the graves of her husband and four of her children. Reflecting on her own mortality, Alupe speaks with calm acceptance, “Even mine grave will be here,” she says with a weary laugh.

In her later years, Alupe has found herself relying on her grandchildren for support. They’ve built a small shed just outside her wooden home, where Alupe spends her days selling two contrasting commodities: nutritious bananas and smokeless tobacco. She barely makes an income but her grandchildren help her manage the business, providing for her in her old age.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Alupe has been supported by Mama Ibado Charity through its senior’s feeding and healthcare programs. The charity’s assistance has eased some of her burdens, offering her not only food but also medical care and a sense of dignity. With Mama Ibado’s help, Alupe has been able to maintain some semblance of stability in her twilight years. Help continue supporting Alupe in her twilight years.