Photographer Osborne Macharia’s latest series, Daughters of the Rift, delves into the intricate geography and cultural tapestry of East Africa. Shaped over millennia by major tectonic processes, the region is marked by the separation of the Somali and Nubian plates, creating a divergent boundary that continues to redefine the landscape today, resulting in stunning and dramatic formations.

In this series, Macharia captures the nuanced beauty and rich traditions of the communities that inhabit these shifting borders.

Through Daughters of the Rift, Macharia not only documents the physical geography of East Africa but also pays homage to the vibrant cultures that thrive within it, encouraging a dialogue about identity, tradition, and the ever-evolving relationship between people and their environment.

Now residing in Canada, Macharia reflects on how his childhood in Kenya has profoundly influenced his artistic vision. He notes:

We have so much history and traditions (both old and new), and it’s worth asking the question ‘what if?’ You’ll be surprised how far your imagination can take you.

Through Daughters of the Rift, Macharia not only documents the physical geography of East Africa but also pays homage to the vibrant cultures that thrive within it, encouraging a dialogue about identity, tradition, and the ever-evolving relationship between people and their environment.