Kikuyu people

Kikuyu

Total population
Approximately 8 million
Regions with significant populations
Languages
Kikuyu, Swahili, English
Religion
Christianity, Traditional African religions

The Kikuyu are the largest ethnic group in Kenya, comprising about 22% of the country's total population. They are part of the larger Bantu ethnic group and primarily reside in the central region of Kenya, particularly in the counties of Kiambu, Murang'a, Nyeri, and Kirinyaga.

History

The Kikuyu people trace their origins to the Mount Kenya region, where they settled around the 13th century. According to Kikuyu oral tradition, they migrated from the north, possibly from the region around Lake Turkana. The Kikuyu were traditionally farmers, cultivating crops such as millet, sorghum, and later, maize and beans.

During the colonial period, the Kikuyu were significantly affected by British rule. The introduction of cash crops like coffee and tea led to the alienation of Kikuyu land, which was a major factor in the Mau Mau Uprising of the 1950s. The Kikuyu played a central role in the struggle for Kenyan independence, with many of their leaders, such as Jomo Kenyatta, becoming prominent figures in the independence movement.

Culture

The Kikuyu have a rich cultural heritage that includes music, dance, and oral literature. Traditional Kikuyu society was organized into clans, each with its own totem and lineage. The Kikuyu language, also known as Gĩkũyũ, is a Bantu language and is widely spoken among the Kikuyu people.

Religion

Traditionally, the Kikuyu believed in a monotheistic god known as Ngai, who was associated with Mount Kenya. Today, most Kikuyu are Christians, with a significant number adhering to various denominations such as Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, and Presbyterianism. However, traditional beliefs and practices still persist, often syncretized with Christian practices.

Social Structure

The Kikuyu social structure was traditionally based on age sets and councils of elders. The elders played a crucial role in decision-making and conflict resolution. The family unit is central to Kikuyu society, with extended families living together or in close proximity.

Economy

The Kikuyu are predominantly agriculturalists, with farming being the mainstay of their economy. They grow cash crops such as coffee and tea, as well as subsistence crops like maize, beans, and potatoes. In recent years, many Kikuyu have also ventured into business and professional sectors, contributing significantly to Kenya's economy.

Politics

The Kikuyu have been influential in Kenyan politics since independence. Many of Kenya's political leaders, including the first President, Jomo Kenyatta, and the third President, Mwai Kibaki, were Kikuyu. The community has been active in shaping the political landscape of the country, often playing a pivotal role in elections and governance.

Also see

• Bantu peoples
• Mau Mau Uprising
• Jomo Kenyatta
• Mount Kenya
• Kenya