Traditional games and dances of Mount Kenya region culture - educational appraisal
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Date
1997
Authors
Wanderi, P. M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
At the level of the traditional culture, physical education activities
including games and dances had a collective, pro-life, functional
inclination. Among the people of the Mount Kenya region in central
Kenya, these activities were of a wide range including several forms of
dances by big-boys; the "Uthi" game for old men and many of these
activities were vigorous and potentially dangerous. A typical example was
the Kikuyu "Muumburo" dance performed by mature boys before the
circumcision season. Other potentially dangerous activities included the
Meru "Ndikano" (Wrestling) and "kiigumi" dances of the older mature
Meru boys who were ready for circumcision. Other forms of dances such
as Kikuyu marriage dances were slow in action and the use of language
provided for the main attraction and thrill both for the dancers and
spectators. The dances for warriors as well as a forum for social display of
their strength and might. The traditional activities were a way of life. The
children's games enhanced preparatory skills to adult life while those for
young men enhanced warfare or work-related skills required for day-today
activities. The dances were a means of entertainment, a means of
bringing people together and a means to health and fitness.. Many other
activities fulfilled this multi-faceted function, including the widespread
wrestling matches. Above all, these activities which were intricately
interwoven in the cultural fabric, enhanced social cohesion, communal
responsibility and group survival.
Description
A paper presented at the Africa Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and dance 3rd Scientific Congress held on 11th - 15th September, 1997 at Kenyatta University
Keywords
Culture, Physical activities, Pro-life, Work-related skills