Welcome to Kenya
Kenya is a land of great diversity in its people and cultures. We have about 42 tribes in Kenya with different languages and cultures that all merge to become the unique mix of Kenyan culture. The biggest six tribes comprise about half the Kenya population and hence there is a higher influence to Kenyan culture from the people of these big tribes.
Demography
Kenya is a land of great diversity in its people and cultures. We have about 42 tribes in Kenya with different languages and cultures that all merge to become the unique mix of Kenyan culture. According to 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census Results, Kenya's population was 47,564,296.
Linguistic Affiliation
The official languages are English and Kiswahili (or Swahili). Swahili, which comes from the Arabic word meaning "coast," is a mix of Arabic and the African language Bantu. The major language groups native to the region include Bantu in the west and along the coast, Nilotic near Lake Victoria, and Cushitic in the north.
Symbolism
The Kenyan flag has three horizontal stripes—red, black, and green—separated by thin white bands. The black symbolizes the people of Kenya, the red stands for the bloodshed in the fight for independence, and the green symbolizes agriculture. In the center of the flag is a red shield with black and white markings and two crossed spears, which stands for vigilance in the defense of freedom.
Etiquette
Kenyans are generally friendly and hospitable. Greetings are an important social interaction, and often include inquiries about health and family members. Visitors to a home are usually offered food or tea, and it is considered impolite to decline. Elderly people are treated with a great deal of respect and deference.
Places to Experience the Best Kenyan Culture
Lamu
A traditionally Muslim town, Lamu is as beautiful as it is authentic.
As an ‘outsider’ you will be surprised to find that Dhows and donkeys are the only mode of transportation here. You can also swim with the dolphins in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean (learn a little about life as a dolphin from these intelligent creatures).
The Bomas of Kenya
If you are in a hurry and you want to experience a cross-section of all the cultures that Kenya has to offer, you simply must visit the Bomas of Kenya on Lang’ata Road in Nairobi.
You will get to see almost everything that the different Kenyan cultures and traditions are made of. From mud thatched houses, to traditional cooking stoves and beautiful dances. The Bomas of Kenya is like the entire country bundled into one lovely compound.
Mombasa and the Coast
Where else would you get a chance to experience authentic Swahili ways than where it is spoken at best? As an added bonus, Mombasa is absolutely stunning. The beaches, the weather, the people and quite simply the way of life here is adorable.
