The role of Islam in the political and social perceptions of the Waswahili of Lamu

The paper centres on the Kimondo verses gathered in 1975 in Lamu and the views of Mr. Omar Maka of Lamu. The paper looks at the influence of Islam on the political and social perceptions of Lamuans in the past and present. It introduces readers to the mashindano poetry and the Kimondo among the Waswahili. It then examines the theocratic nature of Islam and its influence on the political and social perceptions that Lamuans have about Lamu and their relations with non-Lamuans. It examines the relationship between Lamuans and business opportunities, wealth, poverty and Islam. It claims that tourists and investors in the tourist industry are not concerned with Lamu's status as a Mecca of East Africa and, therefore, often hurt the sensibilities of the Waswahili with their lifestyles. Furthermore, as the number of inland people in Lamu increases, the number of native Lamuans decreases. The Kikuyu, for example, have allegedly acquired large tracts of fertile lands that Lamuans believe belong to them by birth and right. Foreign investors are buying up large parts of the historic town of Lamu compelling native Lamuans to move out. Lamu people feel they are increasingly alienated and marginalized and are also losing their heritage and even language at an alarming rate. The study concludes that the Waswahili of Lamu, whether or not they regard themselves as Lamuans, are keenly aware of their rights and heritage and wish to be involved in decisions about what is good for themselves as well as for Lamu generally. Islam is thus not incompatible with renewal and new ideas. It is only incompatible with uncontrolled liberalism and non-Muslim interference in Muslim affairs.