Cultural Transmission during Luhya Mourning Rituals

Abstract

This study examines the transmission of knowledge during mourning rituals among the Luhya community in Kenya, focusing on what is learnt, how it is conveyed and by whom. Utilizing a mixed-method approach including focus groups, structured observations and free listing, we surveyed bereaved adults, bereaved adolescents, community elders and ceremony leaders to explore ritual transmission. Findings indicate that cooperation, kinship roles and emotion management are central themes transmitted during mourning rituals. Mechanisms of transmission include admonition, participation, modelling, teaching and communal singing, with elders and grandparents serving as key knowledge bearers. This research contributes to an understanding of ritual as vital for cultural transmission, emotional processing and community cohesion. The insights gained could enhance existing mental health support for grief-related complications and bolster community well-being.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Transforming cultural evolution research and its application to global futures’.