Kenya Culture
The culture of Kenya is a way of life that blends the tradition of thousands of years of African social evolution with the modern influence of the 20th Century. This blending of culture is expressed in different forms that range from people & language, food, music & dance, art, artifacts, theatre & literature, to ethnic values and ethical norms. Combined with other traditions, these forms of expression and lifestyle combine to form an identity that is uniquely Kenyan.
People & Language
The Kenyan population is comprised of over 40 ethnic groups, each with its own unique dialect. Swahili and English are the national languages that bridge the communication gap and unite Kenyans as one nation.
Kenya Food & diet
Kenyan foods are comprised of a diet rich in ethnic diversity. Popular staple foods include Ugali, rice, bread, chapati(a type of Indian bread), beef, chicken, goat, tilapia and an assortment of fresh vegetables and fruits. The average Kenyan eschews cheese of any sort.
The national dish of Kenya could perhaps be regarded as nyama choma, a form of charcoal-grilled meat (beef or goat) which is very popular in authentic Kenyan restaurants and pubs. In times of celebrations and special occasions such as christmas and wedding ceremonies, it is customary for people to kill and roast goat or cow.
The Kenyan diet also includes tea - anytime is tea time. When it comes to drinks, Kenya tea, in form of Chai (tea with milk and sugar) is the beverage of choice for Kenyans. It is served for breakfast, at mealtimes and also during regular tea time in Kenya. Kenya culture embraces many different cultural influences; thus we have tea time which is borrowed from the British colonial past and Chai, a style of cooking tea from India.
A popular social drink that also makes a good accompaniment for nyama choma is Kenya's signature beer branded Tusker.
Kenya Art &artifacts
Another fascinating aspect of Kenyan culture is expressed in the form
of art and artifacts that different ethnic groups craft manually, using readily available local materials. Beautifully carved wood sculptures are produced in large quantities and sold to the tourists both locally and abroad. These sculptures show exquisite detail and craftsmanship. Other popular Kenya artifacts include colorful hand-woven sisal baskets, Maasai beaded jewelry, gold and silver jewelry, musical instruments, soapstone sculptures, tribal masks, figurines, paintings, prints, batik cloth, kangas and the beautiful traditional Kikoys (African sarongs).
Music & dance
An integral role in the social and religious lives of Kenyans is the traditional music and dance, which forms an important part of Kenya culture. Harmonious beats and rhythm are important parts of the dance which is traditionally backed up by drums and guitar instruments. One of the popular Kenya styles of music is benga, a traditional contemporary dance from the 60's. Taarab music, another typical Kenyan entertainment, is inspired by Arab and Indian immigrants and is popular along the coast.
Theatre & Literature
Kenya has a strong oral tradition. This is conveyed in stories that have been passed on from generation to generation, often in form of songs. The Kenya National Theatre is a performing art center for plays written by Kenyan authors, cultural music and dance. Original Kenya literature is contemporary inspired by the social frictions of the colonial times. Popular contemporary novelists include Ngugi wa Thiong'o among others.
Cultural values & etiquette
Kenyans are a friendly and hospitable culture regardless of ethnic affiliation. Greetings are an important part of social and business interaction.
Kenyans place great importance on family. Kenyan families are often large and usually include the extended family with collective responsibilities and traditional values, which include treating the elderly with respect and reverence.
Kenya sports
Kenya's most popular sport is soccer, and Kenyan runners have gained worldwide renown. Athletes from around the world look up to Kenya's legends - Kipchoge Keino, Henry Rono, Paul Tergat and Catherine Ndereba among others.
