Samburu People: Owners of the Land
Sudan Events
The Samburu are a Nilotic people of north-central Kenya. Samburu are semi-nomadic pastoralists who herd mainly cattle but also keep sheep, goats and camels.
The name they use for themselves is Lokop or Loikop, a term which may have a variety of meanings which Samburu themselves do not agree on. Many assert that it refers to them as “owners of the land” (“lo” refers to ownership, “nkop” is land) though others present a very different interpretation of the term.
According to agencies, Samburu speak the Samburu dialect of the Maa language, which is a Nilotic language.
The Maa language is also spoken by other 22 sub tribes of the Maa community otherwise known as the Maasai.
The traditional dress of the Samburu tribe is a striking red cloth wrapped like a skirt and a white sash.
This is adorned with many colorful beaded earrings, bracelets, anklets and necklaces.
Each piece of jewellery worn represents the status of the wearer.
Dancing is a significant part of Samburu culture. Their dancing is similar to that of the Maasai people with men dancing in a circle and jumping high from a standing position.
Traditionally, the Samburu tribe have not used any instruments to accompany their dancing and singing.
