kenya
About kenya
In talking about Kenya, we’re going to focus on the tribal makeup of the country, their traditions and languages and the impact this has had on the wider cultural diversity that’s been imparted on this amazing country.
But, and this is a big but…
You cannot talk about cultural relevance, artistic expression and sheer eye-candy without mentioning or showing ‘matatu’ - eyes to the right if you’re on desktop and eyes towards your kneecaps if you’re on mobile - how cool is that?
And it’s everywhere. It’s like Kenya is a mobile, constantly morphing and evolving art gallery that plays out right before your eyes, day-by-day, street-by-street, matatu-by-matatu - you need to see it to really believe it.
Maasai
Matatu artwork is only seen in Kenya and some of it is breathtaking…
The Kikuyu, the Luo and the Maasai are just 3 of over 40 tribes that call kenya home
The Kikuyu is the largest ethnic group and are known for their agricultural, economic and political influences.
With a large proportion of Luo’s living on or near Lake Vistoria in the West of the country they are traditionaly known for fishing and cattle farming but are also exemplary musicians, heavily influencing 2 prominent musical styles; Benga and Ohangla.
And we can’t talk about tribes without mentioning (perhaps) Kenya’s most famous sons and daughters, the Maasai. A semi-nomadic tribe that are instantly recognisable for their distinctive clothing and beaded jewelery. They rely on cattle herding for economic reasons and their cultural identity and are also known to be fearsome warriors.
events & spaces
Here’s a few recommendations to whet your appetite. From our friend BelaBela to local events that occur on an annual basis.
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A rich cultural showcase featuring colourful parades, music and dance, the arts, food-stalls, workshops and much, much more…
Date: Throughout the month of November -
Held in Kilifi’s baobab forest this unique fetival showcases the very best in East african music, arts and culture.
Date: Dec 30 – Jan 1
View website -
Venture just north of Mombasa and you find Lamu island, home to the Swahilli celebrating event that is The Lamu Cultural Festival.
Date: Nov 28 - Nov 30 -
Music festival held every year on 4th & 5th July, Diani Beach, Mombasa
instagram -
Music festival 30th & 31st December, Diani Beach, Mombasa
instagram -
A one stop creative studio for art lovers who are looking to buy art or improve their own skill-set.
+254 721 895987
View website
instagram
“Muda umepita, lakini karibu nyumbani. Tumefurahi umeamua kurudi.”
The people of Kenya
a final word
You’ll see this….
Inspiring that mural if you’re fortunate enough to spend some time in TBEZZE
This unique mixture of diverse tribes, married with their individual cultures, languages and artistic expressions has resulted in Kenya’s enviable cultural vibrancy.
Obviously we’ve only provided some very small insights here, and so, we recommend paying the country a visit. To see, hear and taste for yourself this rich cultural diversity.
Next we’ll focus on Mombasa, and its historical past.