Introduction

We held the coffee bar discussion on 18^th June 2024 which was based on Culture and Beliefs of different communities. The objective was to promote comprehension and correct misunderstandings. We defined Culture and belief as follow:

• Culture includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, laws, customs, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by humans as members of society. It encompasses both tangible and intangible elements that define a group’s way of life.
• Beliefs are specific ideas that people hold to be true. They are closely tied to the values and norms of a culture and often stem from religious, philosophical, or social ideologies.

Different youths had different views on different tribes, their cultures and beliefs where most were open about them

Luhya-The Luhya are the second largest ethnic group in Kenya, inhabiting the Western Province. They are composed of 18 sub-tribes, each with unique customs but a shared cultural heritage. They used to “accidentally” kill one twin in case they were the first children born

Kisii- the Kisii, also known as the Gusii, are an ethnic group in Kenya primarily residing in Kisii County and parts of Nyamira County in the southwestern region of the country. They are known for their agricultural prowess, rich traditions, and strong community bonds. Whenever they bury someone they would wake up the next morning to a dropping grave

Kikuyu- their rite of passage Includes birth, circumcision, marriage, and death. However the 8-4-4 system has affected their circumcision process where most of their young boys are circumcised after their grade 8 education level before they head to high school.

Kamba community- the girls are given some property by their parents when the traditionally move to their husbands place

Luo-The Luo are the fourth largest ethnic group in Kenya, living mainly around Lake Victoria in the Nyanza Province. They are known for their fishing culture and rich oral traditions. Their rites of Passage include Birth, initiation, marriage, and burial rites are significant. Initiation rites do not involve circumcision, unlike many other Kenyan tribes. They were known to remove one of their incisors on the bottom jaw.

Maasai-The Maasai are a semi-nomadic people primarily found in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. They are known for their distinctive customs, dress, and strong warrior culture. For them giving dowry to their girls is believed to be an endless process. They were also believed to kill lions to prove their manhood.

Impact on Society

Culture and beliefs profoundly impact various aspects of society, including:

• Social Structure: Culture defines the roles and hierarchies within a society. For instance, caste systems in India or class systems in many Western countries.
• Education: Beliefs influence educational systems and the value placed on education. For example, Confucian cultures emphasize respect for teachers and the importance of education.
• Economy: Cultural attitudes toward work, wealth, and consumption can shape economic practices and policies.
• Politics: Cultural beliefs and values can influence political systems and ideologies. For example, democratic values in Western cultures or collectivist values in many Asian societies.
• Health: Cultural beliefs about health, illness, and medical practices affect how societies approach healthcare and medicine. Traditional medicine versus modern medicine is a common dichotomy.

 Conclusion

The Kikuyu, Luhya, Luo, and Maasai communities each have unique cultures and belief systems that have shaped their identities and ways of life. While modernization and globalization have influenced these communities, many traditional practices and beliefs continue to thrive, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of Kenya.

Understanding culture and beliefs is crucial for fostering mutual respect and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world. By appreciating the diversity and complexity of cultural practices and belief systems, societies can promote more inclusive and harmonious interactions among their members