We start with a bold claim. The Luhya people of Western Kenya are one of, if not the most, ancestrally ethically diverse and heterogenous ethnic groups in Africa. Drawing ancestry from Bantu, Nilotic and Cushitic groups the 18 Houses of Mulembe are:
Learn about Luhya clans, sub-clans, ancestry and genealogy.
This is the story of the lost children of Maragoli. A story told to myself, in passing, by my beloved late paternal uncle Herman. Unfortunately, baba Herman’s passing on in late 2020 at the ripe old age of 88 denied me a chance to be versed as-it-was on this little talked about, but significant chunk … Read more
A reader shared with us the origin of omwami. Omwami is a title that showers honor, respect and even reverence (sometimes deceitful praise) to whomever it’s bestowed upon. Our article on the meaning of omwami looked at the common understanding whenever someone is called omwami. Chief, boss, leader and more we’ve come to know as … Read more
A short story about Balunda clan of the Bukusu on their rich culture and history as a people. The Balunda are commonly called the ‘batikitia ekulu’ in Bukusu language; meaning those with power over the heavens. You might call them the rain makers for it is believed that they posses supernatural powers to postpone or … Read more
Kinagosi, plural, vinagosi is an endangered plant of the genus Euphorbia. What follows is a look at the taboos surrounding this shrub of immense cultural value to the Maragoli of Kenya. With lots of nostalgia, a story is told by old men of a particular time, circa half a century ago. It was a time … Read more
Beyond totems, such as animals that are said to be clan animals, Bukusu clans can be differentiated by their quirks. The following stereotypes on Bukusu clans are intended to make us laugh at ourselves. What follows is a hilarious punt at opening the closets that hold the things that, like in any big family, we … Read more
