Who Are the El Molo?
The El Molo are Kenya's smallest ethnic group and one of the world's most endangered peoples, numbering only approximately 1,000-3,000 (estimates vary). They inhabit the southeastern shore of Lake Turkana in Marsabit County, living in a few small villages on islands and the lakeshore. The El Molo traditionally spoke an Eastern Cushitic language now considered extinct; most El Molo today speak Samburu with some Turkana influences. Their economy centers on fishing in Lake Turkana using traditional reed rafts and hunting hippopotamus and crocodile. The El Molo's small population, language loss, and intermarriage with neighbors make their cultural survival precarious.
Lake Fishers
The El Molo developed a specialized economy around Lake Turkana, Africa's largest desert lake. Using rafts made from bundled doum palm logs, they fish the lake's waters, catching tilapia and Nile perch. Traditionally, they also hunted hippopotamus and crocodile using harpoons—dangerous work requiring skill and courage. Fish were dried for preservation; trade with pastoral neighbors provided grain and other goods. This lacustrine specialization distinguishes the El Molo from surrounding pastoral peoples (Turkana, Samburu, Rendille). The lake's isolation provided some protection from conflict but limited access to resources. Diet heavily dependent on fish and hippopotamus has been associated with high fluoride intake from the lake's alkaline waters, causing dental and skeletal fluorosis.
Language Loss and Identity
The El Molo language (Elmolo) is considered extinct; the last fluent speakers died in the late 20th century. Most El Molo now speak Samburu, reflecting close relationships with that pastoral group; some speak Turkana. This language loss reflects both small population size and extensive intermarriage with neighbors. Indeed, some dispute whether a distinct El Molo ethnic group still exists, arguing that extensive mixing has effectively absorbed the El Molo into surrounding populations. However, many individuals identify as El Molo and maintain distinctive practices. Tourism has increased awareness of El Molo culture; some El Molo now benefit from tourist visits. The question of who counts as El Molo for purposes of recognition, representation, and benefits is contested.
Contemporary El Molo
Modern El Molo face multiple challenges. Lake Turkana's water levels have declined, partly due to the Gibe III dam reducing Omo River inflow; fish populations have suffered. Climate change intensifies droughts affecting the region. Conflict with neighboring pastoralists over resources occasionally threatens the small El Molo communities. The tiny population creates vulnerability to disease, disaster, or displacement. Government recognition and support have increased somewhat; the El Molo are listed among Kenya's marginalized communities. Tourism provides income for some, though accessibility is limited. NGOs have supported fishing equipment, education, and health services. The El Molo demonstrate both the fragility of very small indigenous populations and the complexity of cultural identity when populations intermarry and languages are lost.
References
- Heine, B. (1980). The Elm Molo Language: A Study of the Linguistic Relationship
- Sobania, N. (1988). Fishermen Herders: Subsistence, Survival and Cultural Change in Northern Kenya
- Odegi-Awuondo, C. (1990). Life in the Balance: The El Molo