The origin, structure and the role of clan and Gichiaro (blood brotherhood) as a system of social control in pre colonial Tigania of Meru prior to the adaptation of circumcision age set system in Kenya

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to analyze the origin, structure and the role of Tigania clans and Gichiaro (blood brotherhood) as a system of social control in pre colonial Tigania of Meru prior to the adoption and adaptation of circumcision age set system. Specifically, the study examined how the clans emerged among the pre colonial Tigania, how they were structured and their specific roles. The study further investigated the origin of Gichiaro (blood brotherhood) and how it was used to bring harmony among different clans of the Meru. The study was interpreted within the theory of social structuralism which was used to analyze the functionality of the clans and blood brotherhood among the pre-colonial Tigania. The study employed a descriptive research design. The study location was in Tigania, Meru County targeting the population with knowledge on clan/lineage system. A sample size of 40 respondents aged 60 years and above based on the concept of data saturation was selected, although some younger respondents were selected due to their knowledge on Tigania culture as result of education and community leadership. The sample was selected from the target population through purposive and snowballing sampling procedures. The respondents at this age possessed less diluted information as they acquired it from their parents or grandparents on clan and Gichiaro structures. The data was mainly collected from secondary and oral sources and then corroborated. The data collected was analyzed qualitatively and presented thematically. The research was carried with strict adherence to the ethics of research. The research found out that, pre-colonial Tigania were not initially organized into clans prior to their migration. The clans developed on the course of migration. The Gichiaro system of social control was later developed to keep the clans united and promote brotherhood even after the clan separation. The clan played vital role in pre colonial Tigania such as defining boundaries, land allocation, political leadership, intermarriages, performance of cultural rituals among others. This research is important on informing the policy makers on the vital role such traditional social institutions played in the society. Such institutions ensured social order, discipline and harmony in the society thus fostering a strong social fabric. Therefore, with sound policies such social institutions can be sustained. The research also contributes to the knowledge on social cultural history of pre colonial Tigania of Meru.