By Maison Nteetu
If you want to reach somewhere fast, walk alone, but if you
want to go far walk with others. This is a say that Nguruman residents believe
in so much. They have impressed it in their farming activities especially.
Ushirika, is the name they give to their small groups. Ushirika is a Kiswahili name meaning
togetherness. An ushirika can have up to seven members, of which each member is
allocated a specific day where all the members meet to perform duties required
by the host.
These are the best groups actually requiring after work,
just a cup of tea if it is available. They can prepare a quarter acre of land
in one day. The group requires that members’ farms are not too far so as to
utilize time.
 |
| A planted field of one member. |
According to the group members, there are policies and an
administration where they orally elect a chairman whose duty is to give orders
on less active members. The chairman however has no advantage over the other
members. He must be responsible and serve as an example.
If a member misses another’s duty, according to
the rules, he is supposed to compensate during the weekend when the other
members are free. Time is the most valued item according to the members.
 |
| Group members performing duties |
According to the group members, there are policies and an
administration where they orally elect a chairman whose duty is to give orders
on less active members. The chairman however has no advantage over the other
members. He must be responsible and serve as an example.
If a member misses another’s duty, according to
the rules, he is supposed to compensate during the weekend when the other
members are free. Time is the most valued item according to the members.
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