Culture and history

The historical fabric of Kenya intertwines the heritage of the Bantu, Nilot and Kushite peoples with the influence of the Indian Ocean: Arab-Persian trade, coastal cities-states (Lamu, Mombasa), the Portuguese period and Omani power shaped the Swahili culture - language, poetry, courtyard architecture and sailing "dows."

During the colonial era, Britain established a protectorate and colony; the struggle for independence went through the Mauu Mau movement and led to freedom in 1963 and the republic in 1964.

The slogan "Harambee" ("pull together") has become a civilian practice of mutual assistance and a symbol of national identity.

Modern culture is polyphonic: more than 40 ethnic groups (Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya, Kamba, Maasai, etc.), the state languages ​ ​ are Swahili and English.

In music - banga, tarab and urban genres; in crafts - wood carving, maasai beads, weaving kikoi.

The cuisine relies on ugali, sukuma-wiki, nyama-choma and spicy coastal dishes (pilau).

Holidays and festivals connect Islamic and Christian heritage, and safari culture (Masai Mara, Amboseli) and the Rift Valley running tradition have become part of the national brand.

The upshot is a dynamic mix of roots and urbanisation, where communal values and creative industries shape the face of modern Kenya.