Zimbabwean Woman Among Self-Styled ‘African Tribe’ Defying Eviction in Scotland

Zimbabwean Woman Among Self-Styled ‘African Tribe’ Defying Eviction in Scotland – Authorities in Scotland are facing mounting pressure to take stronger action against a self-styled “African tribe” that has set up camp in woodlands near Jedburgh, despite repeated eviction notices.

The group, known as the Kingdom of Kubala, consists of Ghanaian singer Kofi Offeh (36), who calls himself King Atehehe, Zimbabwean-born Jean Gasho (43), who styles herself Queen Nandi, and American citizen Kaura Taylor from Texas, who refers to herself as Asnat, the “handmaiden.”

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The trio claims they are reclaiming land allegedly stolen from their ancestors more than 400 years ago.

Since arriving in the Scottish Borders earlier this year, they have established camps on both private and council-owned land, defying legal eviction orders.

Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has already incurred eviction costs amounting to approximately £6,000, sparking frustration among landowners and local officials. Jedburgh councillor Scott Hamilton voiced concern during a recent council meeting, saying:

“If you own land in Scotland you must be terrified. The £6,000 cost of the eviction action is simply unacceptable.”

Police Scotland has defended its approach, stressing the need for a long-term resolution. Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Gregg Banks acknowledged public frustration but emphasised the complexity of the case.

“What we are seeing is a degree of frustration and I accept where that frustration comes from. But this is a really complex situation — for the local community, for the landowners, and for the individuals involved,” he said.

The group was most recently ordered to vacate council-owned property by midday on Monday, but according to reports, they remained at their campsite, singing around a fire and showing no intention of leaving.

While the Trespass (Scotland) Act of 1865 remains active, police officials note that subsequent legislation complicates matters regarding land access.

SBC has confirmed that legal proceedings to remove the group are ongoing and will be pursued “as quickly as possible.”