Camel Racing

Adrenaline, cheering, and air filled with dust are the order of the day in Samburu County’s administrative capital at the annual camel derby. Better known as the Maralal International Camel Derby, this event’s name goes to show that the camel games attract players, enthusiasts, and curious adventurers from beyond the 254’s borders. 

Livestock for the Win! 

In East Africa, there is a common association of camels to pastoralist communities. In fact, for some, camels are a source of meat. And while a camel derby seems an unlikely game, it has proven to be a form of entertainment, or better yet part of the lifestyle. In these communities, animals are a sign of wealth. And perhaps the animal’s speed is also a significance of something… maybe their ability to instruct their camel. 

One may wonder how camel races came to be. It’s a good thought to ponder, but we believe that while pastoralists move from time to time in search of greener pastures as their way of life, like any other community, they too are in need of enjoyment – which has and continues to be a necessity for leisure. 

The Early Camel Derbies 

It isn’t certain how these races then transformed into a camel derby. But what we do know is that the first Kenyan camel derby took place in the nineties in Maralal. Though it wasn’t until the next decade that it began getting more national recognition. In fact, in the years since, this exhilarating festival has popularised the otherwise sleepy Maralal town, contributing to Samburu’s tourism. 

Camel Races in Recent Times 

Every August, on the first day of the three-day event, a group of camels are lined up, with their riders seated securely and ready to drive their animals to victory with the hope of landing a place in the derby’s legends list. This is the main show of the derby, but other games have since been included. This makes the derby appeal to a range of interests. The camel race is often a commotion – as is the case with most animal races. However, it gives communities a chance to boast their culture. 

Usually, the more experienced camel riders manage to make their way to the finish line – but not without some challenges steering the animals. 

Have you attended or participated in the camel derby? What strategies work to manoeuvre the camels and win these races?