Sacred
Forests and Peace Trees
Within Suba District are a number of small sacred forests and peace
trees. These were very important in the past as locations of
communication with the ancestors and even now most are protected and in
use, especially for peacemaking in the community or to settle family
affairs. Most rituals are performed by male elders, who still retain
much of the knowledge of the rituals and ceremonial places. Women and
younger men did not perform rituals, although young men were sometimes
allowed to sacrifice an animal outside of the sacred place.
Several sacred sites are in walking distance of Sindo town (on the
mainland), however visitors should beware – one of the trees is
believed to be so poisonous that it kills anyone who touches it; it is
said that even someone who walks under the shadow of the tree or passes
downwind of it may die! Animals and birds are also affected. It is
reported that researchers who have attempted to find out more about the
tree have not been seen again. While modern science doesn’t know of a
tree with such poisonous and instantaneous effects, there are carbon
dioxide springs in other places in Kenya that might have similar
effects, and which could go undetected until too late. It is
recommended to follow the advice of your guide while visiting Sindo
area.
Please contact the Abasuba Community Peace Museum if you would like to
visit sacred forests or peace trees. Please respect the traditions of
the Suba people and accept with good humour any limitations placed on
your visits to sacred sites.
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