MAJOR ETHNIC TRIBES IN KENYA WITH THEIR MARRIAGE CUSTOMS
Kenya is home to approximately forty distinct ethnic groups, each with its own language, culture, and traditions. The Kikuyu, Luhya, Luo, Kalenjin, and Maasai are just a few of the country’s many prominent ethnic groups. The Kikuyu make up the biggest ethnic group in Kenya; they are famous farmers who also revere their ancestors. The Luo are well-known fishermen and boatbuilders, while the Luhya are famous for their love of song and dancing. The Kalenjin are well-known for their physical skill, especially in long-distance running, while the Maasai are renowned for their unique clothing and methods of herding cattle.
KENYA MARRIAGE CUSTOMS
Marriage is a major life event in Kenya, thus it’s often celebrated with a lot of fanfare. Marriage customs and traditions in Kenya are not uniform among the country’s many ethnic and regional communities.
The bride fee, or dowry, is a typical rite of passage in Kenyan marriages. The groom and/or his family make this gift to the bride’s family as an expression of their affection and gratitude. The bride fee varies in size from one culture to the next and from one family’s economic standing to another’s.
The family’s involvement is crucial during the marriage ceremony in Kenya. Often, the bride and groom’s families will take part in the wedding planning and bride price negotiations. It may take many months and a number of family gatherings and conversations to accomplish this.
The wedding ceremony may proceed if the bride price has been paid and the marriage has been arranged. Traditional Kenyan weddings include live music, dance, and plenty of delicious food. The couple will wear traditional garb, and there may be ring exchange and libation rites as part of the ceremony.
The newlyweds often start their lives together by settling in with the groom’s family after the wedding. The wife is often expected to remain submissive once married, while the husband takes on the primary role of breadwinner.
Kenya’s numerous ethnic groupings and traditions are reflected in the country’s rich and varied marriage rituals. Although some of these practices may appear archaic or patriarchal to foreigners, they are deeply ingrained in Kenyan society and culture.