We had our Coffee Bar Tuesday at the MuYI Hub on Tuesday, September 24th. Thirty-four youths convened to talk about culture and basic etiquette. The talk had a wide range of viewpoints, contentious debates, and some perceptive observations on what it means to be of a certain tribe in the modern world, particularly in Kenya, as was to be expected.

Kenya is a diverse nation with more than 40 distinct ethnic tribes, each with its own traditions and customs. Knowing the subtle cultural differences is essential

Maasai-if you belong to the same generation or age bracket one can exchange wives and you have to stick your spear outside the house.

If your mother’s dowry was a certain amount you have to give out the same amount for your dowry
luhya-if a corpse does not cooperate during its burial and its above 25 years one is beaten until it cries.

Kisii-coffins are stepped on after burial and when specific birds come around you home it shows that people will soon mourn the death of someone close to them.

Although culture shock is a typical experience, you may simply adjust and handle social interactions by knowing a few basic etiquettes.

1. Recognizing Kenyan Culture Shock The disorienting sensation that people frequently get when they come across strange habits and behaviors is known as “culture shock.”

Language obstacles, greeting customs, differing clothing rules, and divergent perspectives on time and personal space can all contribute to this in Kenya. Here are few instances:

Language Diversity: Of Kenyans, 68 languages are spoken, with English and Swahili being the most widely spoken. However, many Kenyans are bilingual and frequently transition between languages during conversation.
Social Structures: In contrast to more individualistic cultures, many Kenyan villages have a strong foundation in patriarchy and community living.
Religious Diversity: The widespread practice of Christianity, Islam, and indigenous religions affects everyday routines and societal expectations.
It can be difficult to adjust to these differences, but it can be made simpler by realizing the underlying respect for tradition and community.

2. Important Protocols for All Kenyan Tribes
Every Kenyan tribe has distinct social practices, despite certain common things.

The following are some crucial manners to remember:
Etiquette for Greetings
In Kenya, greeting someone is seen as a show of respect, though this differs throughout tribes:
Swahili Communities (Coastal Kenya): Although gentle bows are not uncommon, especially from elders, handshakes are the norm. Saying “Habari” (how are you?) or “Jambo” (hello) to someone is courteous.
Maasai: As an age-old sign of respect, a handshake is frequently exchanged during greetings among the Maasai, who may also lightly spit on the hand.
Kikuyu: Giving someone a firm handshake by putting both of your hands together conveys warmth and sincerity.

Clothes Code and Etiquette
Respect is shown by dressing adequately, with regional standards varying:
Urban Areas: While Nairobi and other cities tend to be more liberal, modest clothing is still valued, particularly in official or religious contexts.
Muslim communities and rural areas: Women are often encouraged to wear modest clothing, covering their arms and legs, especially locations like the Coast.
Maasai: Shukas, or vibrantly coloured clothing, are historically worn by Maasai men and women. You might see ornate jewelry when you come, particularly on women. Respect their traditional garb and, if in doubt, wear something modest.
Individual space and Conversation
most Kenyans have differences in their personal space and directness:
Kamba and Kikuyu: Individuals in these cultures converse warmly and closely, occasionally embracing or touching arms. Being extremely formal or aloof could come out as unwelcoming.
Somali Kenyans: While handshakes are frequent among Somali Kenyans, unless they are related, men and women typically avoid making physical contact in public. In particular, eye contact between men and women may be fleeting.

4. Accept, Don’t Resist, When Managing Culture Shock Patience and an open mind are necessary for cultural adjustment. When in Kenya and experiencing cultural shock:

How culture affects how we relate with others

For many tribes’ parents don’t allow their children to intermarry since they fear other tribes culture -where the only solution to it is making sure you interact with a person not based on their tribe but by who a person is since we are all unique and Kenya is a diverse nation.

We should also be happy since we get to learn something new about people we interact with

“someone saw my name at the Nyayo house and refused to serve me, this man said that I need to come the following day just because my name starts with an O’’ one participant said.

Gen-z have come to cut ties about tribes but should still make sure to respect their culture since after one die culture takes over.

For the maasai nowadays the mukuki culture is different and dead in case one is found by the husband’s wife it can erupt to a fight.

What we love about other people’s culture

Maasai- how they dress their shuka and how they have freedom to carry their machetes everywhere

Kambas -the way the dance freely at events no one judges the other. The way they always say “no vaa” yet they home area is so far.

Swahili-how they prepare their food, the way they dance and how they dress.

” Kikuyus export ladies to Nairobi since they are always available “one participant said.
Be Willing to Learn to acknowledge diversity and pose polite queries. The majority of Kenyans are delighted to share and are proud of their culture.
You should respect tradition’s and make an effort to be mindful of regional traditions, even if they appear unusual or foreign. This demonstrates your eagerness to fit in.
one can Friends which will help You can lessen the shock of adjustment and gain a deeper understanding of Kenyan culture by forming relationships with the people.
You can have a more satisfying experience in Kenya by fully immersing yourself in its diverse cultures which are beautiful.