8 Interesting Kenya Traditional Games

Traditional Games in Kenya

Some of the traditional games and sports in Kenya since antiquity have included wrestling, racing exercises, stick fights, hunting (using spears and arrows), board games, bull fights and dances.

Read on to find out more about traditional games and sports in Kenya.

Traditional Games in Kenya #1: Bullfighting in Kenya

Bullfighting is prevalent among the Luhya community of western Kenya.

The sport was originally practiced to mark key events in the community, such as funerals.

However, the sport has evolved to become more competitive, and is a source of income on occasion.

The lovers of this sport have vowed to ensure that this treasured traditional sport lives on.

Kenyan bull owners have formed an association, and this has led to the establishment of a stadium in Ikolomani constituency for bullfighting called Malinya Stadium.

Bullfighting events are usually held on Saturdays and public holidays.

The bulls that participate in the fights are usually prepared by keeping them in zero-grazing situations and isolating them from other cattle so that they can become wild.

They are also given a balanced diet.

On the eve of a bullfighting event in western Kenya, the competing bulls are usually given a local brew known as busaa so that they become aggressive during the bullfight.

Traditional Games in Kenya: bullfighting is not the national sport of Kenya

Traditional games in Kenya are deeply rooted in the country’s diverse cultural heritage, with each ethnic group having its own unique forms of recreation.

These games have been played for generations, often serving as a way to pass time, develop physical and mental skills, and foster social bonds within communities.

Some of the most well-known traditional games include:

Kenya Traditional Games #2. Ajua (Bao)

A popular strategy board game played among the Swahili people, particularly along the Kenyan coast.
It involves moving small seeds or stones around a wooden board with carved pits, requiring skill and foresight.
Similar to Mancala games played in other parts of Africa.

3. Kati

A dodgeball-style game played by children using a soft ball or rolled-up socks.
Players stand in a circle, with two players in the center trying to avoid being hit by the ball.
Enhances agility and reflexes.

4. Brikicho (Hide and Seek)

A common game among children where one person closes their eyes and counts while others hide.
The seeker then tries to find the hidden players.
Encourages problem-solving and spatial awareness.

5. Mbube Mbube

A call-and-response game where one blindfolded player (the “lion” or mbube) tries to catch another player (the “goat”).
The other participants shout “Mbube! Mbube!” louder as the lion gets closer to the goat.
Played to improve listening skills and teamwork.

6. Nyama Nyama

A memory-based game where one player calls out different animals, and the others must quickly respond if it is a real animal or not.
Enhances knowledge of wildlife and quick thinking.

7. Gicandi

A riddle-based game played among the Kikuyu.
A hollow gourd with beads inside is shaken, and players must interpret the riddles associated with the sound.
Used as a storytelling and wisdom-sharing activity.

8. Kakamega Wrestling

Found among the Luhya community, particularly in Kakamega, where young men engage in traditional wrestling matches.
A test of strength, endurance, and technique.

Photo Credit: The Elephant

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