Inside Lake Baringo's Polygamous Haven

Parmolok Island, often referred to as the "Island of Love," is situated approximately five kilometres from the Kampi Samaki shopping centre on the shores of Lake Baringo.

This 95-acre island is distinguished not only by its lush landscapes and abundant birdlife but also by its unique history and ownership. The island was the sole domain of Mzee Lepiliani Lempakany, a respected patriarch of the Ilchamus community, who lived there with his large family until his passing in September 2020 at the age of 105.

Lempakany was known for his polygamous lifestyle, cohabiting with seven wives and raising more than 30 children alongside numerous grandchildren. His life on Parmolok Island exemplified ideals of love and unity, which led to the island's affectionate nickname. As a fisherman and pastoralist, Lempakany cultivated a prosperous household, earning him the honorary title "Mzee wa Mlima Moja," or "the man with an island."

His approach to family life, characterized by discipline and fairness, enabled him to maintain harmony among his wives and children. Meals were shared communally, and each wife had an individual hut, promoting a strong family bond. The Lempakany family, consisting of 48 siblings—21 brothers and 28 sisters—thrived in relative seclusion, with Kokwa Island as their nearest neighbour, located approximately four kilometres away.

Despite this isolation, they actively communicated with the outside world and prioritized education by sending children to the mainland. In his later years, Lempakany moved to the mainland, accompanied by two of his wives, to facilitate the education of his children. He remained a revered community figure until his death, leaving behind a directive to his sons to maintain the integrity of Parmolok Island and refrain from selling any part of it.

This instruction has been upheld, with portions of the island leased for tourism while preserving the family's heritage. Currently, Parmolok Island, once vibrant with the energy of Lempakany's extensive family, has become quieter, with only a few houses and two tourist hotels remaining.