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There are many different religions in Kenya. The majority of
Kenyans are Christians. Islam is also well established along the coast. Long before
the arrival of western religions, Africans practised traditional beliefs. In Kenya
this varies from one ethnic group to another, but some beliefs are common. Some of
the denominations mix Christian and traditional practices. Music is a part of Kenyan spirituality. Special traditional instruments, such as drums, may be passed from generation to generation. The drums are used by diviners, who have a calling, or special power. If there is disease or death, a diviner may be called in to drive the evil spirits away. The diviner understands and is able to manipulate forces of magic. During the dry season, farmers may ask diviners to bring rain. Diviners also treat sick people by preparing special teas made from herbs and roots. |
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Many Kenyans believe in a Supreme Being and other spirits
that are a part of everyday life. One spirit can give the herder healthy livestock,
while another spirit could bring a year of good crops. The spirits are believed to
live in objects in nature such as rivers or trees. For example, the Kikuyu people
believe that the creator, whom they call Ngai or Mogai, lives in
Kirinyaga, which is also known as Mount Kenya. The people go to the foothills at a certain time and make a sacrificial offering to the god, asking for help with their farming or some other aspect of life. |