Luhya refers to a group of 16 tribes in western Kenya. They speak mutually intelligible dialects by different names. For example, the Marachi Luhyas speak the Olumarachi dialect. Each of the Luhya tribes are divided into several clans.
Most Marachi Luhyas are farmers who grow corn, beans, peanuts, bananas, cabbages, cassava, green beans, and other vegetables for their food source. They also grow coffee, tea, sugarcane, cotton, and sunflowers for trade. They raise livestock, including chickens, ducks, turkeys, goats, sheep, and cattle. Their farming tools can range from simple metal hoes to oxen or tractors, depending on their location and financial resources.
Farm work is divided between the two genders. At home, girls help their mothers care for young children and do housework, while boys follow their father’s lead, doing farmwork. Fathers do little child care, except to take them to a doctor. Gender roles are less strict in urban environments, and there is always the question about whether it is more important for children to attend school or help on the family farm.
Like most people of rural Kenya, the Luhyas live in homesteads with their nuclear families and sometimes grandparents. In today’s world, Luhya grandparents are more and more likely to play the role of a foster parent. Each family is independent, but they help other families in times of crisis.
Traditionally, the Luhyas were renowned for their blacksmithing skills, and today they continue to practice this craft, alongside producing pottery and other useful items.
Disputes are usually resolved at the clan level. Unresolved crimes are addressed by the local government.
They also enjoy sports, especially soccer. There are many excellent Luhya soccer players. Some Luhya tribes engage in bullfighting.
Marachi Luhyas are officially Christian, but many still practice witchcraft and sorcery. Sorcery and witchcraft are usually blamed for untimely deaths.
Luhya churches are strong, and they have the potential to disciple many to take Christ’s name to other parts of Africa.
As is the case in most Kenyan communities, the traditional culture is under heavy pressure. Development and modernization have a substantial impact on most parts of traditional life. However, they have maintained a large number of traditional customs, some of which have been adapted to modernity. For instance, initiation rites still take place among virtually all sections of the population. Still, the timing has been adapted to coincide with school vacations, so that they do not interfere with the child's education.
Unemployment is rampant. Their limited health care is poorly equipped. They have poor roads, and the people live in poverty.
Pray for better roads and medical facilities for the Luhyas.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Marachi Luhya churches and families.
Pray for them to draw close to the only Savior, Jesus Christ, and desire an even closer walk with him.
Pray for hundreds to be called and sent by their churches to the spiritually lost in Sudan and Somalia.
Scripture Prayers for the Luhya, Marachi in Kenya.
https://www.101lasttribes.com/tribes/luhya.html
https://famouskenya.com/luhya-tribe/
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
