Corinne Hofmann, a Swiss national born to a French mother and a German father, was born on June 4, 1960, in Frauenfeld, Switzerland. At the age of 21, she opened a boutique in Switzerland, specializing in selling bridal gowns and second-hand clothing.
In 1986, Corinne embarked on a journey to Kenya, where she met Lketinga Leparmorijo, a Samburu warrior, during a trip with her then-boyfriend. The encounter had a profound impact on her, and she was determined to find him again. Despite the challenges and distance, Corinne traveled to Nairobi and Maralal, eventually finding Lketinga in the bush near Barsaloi, a small village in northern Kenya.
Corinne and Lketinga's relationship blossomed, and they married in 1988. To improve the lives of the tribe, Corinne opened a shop, providing essential goods and nourishments. The couple had a daughter, Napirai, but their happiness was short-lived. Lketinga's jealousy and accusations of infidelity began to take a toll on their relationship. Corinne's illness and the couple's financial struggles only exacerbated the situation.
In 1990, Corinne made the difficult decision to leave Lketinga and return to Switzerland. She went on to have several successful careers and, in 1997, began writing her first novel about her life in Kenya. The novel, titled "Back From Africa," was a testament to her experiences.
After more than 14 years, Corinne returned to Barsaloi, where she was warmly welcomed by her Kenyan family, including her former mother-in-law. She also visited the film set for "The White Massai" and met Nina Hoss, who portrayed her in the movie. Corinne's journey to Kenya is documented in her novel "Reunion in Barsaloi."
