| Country: | Kenya |
| Details of Formation: | The group's name was first mentioned in 1962 and referred to a group of Gusii fighters active in the conflict between the Gusii and Maasai communities. Prior to becoming a pro-government militia in 2001, the group's main task was to defend their community in Kisii. In 2001, they were first mentioned to be financially supported by MPs. The group collaborated with a paramilitary wing of the police (General Service Unit) to harass opposition supporters. |
| Details of Termination: | The government outlawed the Chinkororo in March 2002, together with 17 other groups. The group does not become a rebel group but continues to exist as an illicit vigilante group. |
| Purpose: | The group was formed with the aim of protecting the community and property and defending themselves in times of conflict. The government deployed Chinkororo to intimidate opposition supporters. |
| Organisation: | The leadership of the group is usually informal and consists of two types, one military and one ritual/traditional. The group is loosely organized and has no hierarchy. Since it is not active in peacetime, members organize themselves into basic units in times of tension or conflict when they feel their service is needed. |
| Weapons and Training: | The group is armed with homemade bows and arrows, and it uses sharpened crowbars and clubs. Some arrows are poisoned or barbed. |
| Size: | no information |
| Reason for Membership: | Chinkororo mainly comprises members of the ethnic Kisii group and membership in the group is voluntary. The group consists of members of the community who are considered particularly capable of serving in the event of conflict. Women are not eligible to join the group. |
| Treatment of Civilians: | Many locals viewed them as defending the interests of the community. |
| Other Information: | In 2001, the group received money from an MP. However, it remains unclear whether members are regularly paid by the government. |
| References: | Kegoro, George. 2009. “The rise of militia groups in political violence: a case study of chinkororo with special reference to the post election violence in Kenya.” Nairobi: University of Nairobi - Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies (IDIS). |