Kabete Hosts Traditional Circumcision Graduation Ceremony

Kabete, Kiambu County – In a significant cultural event, a group of boys in Kabete, Kiambu County, recently completed their transition into young adulthood through a traditional Kikuyu circumcision ceremony. This rite of passage, a key aspect of the Kikuyu community’s ‘kiama kia maa’ culture, was celebrated at the Valence School Academy in the Kabete sub-county.

According to Kenya News Agency, the organizing Secretary General of the Kabete Sub County Kiama kia maa, the ceremony marked the end of a nine-day period of grooming and cultural education. He emphasized that their organization is legally recognized and encouraged men to join in order to strengthen the societal foundations. During the event, the importance of caring for the boy child was highlighted, particularly in addressing contemporary challenges such as drug abuse and homosexuality.

The newly initiated young men were also encouraged to prioritize their education, underscoring its importance in becoming influential members of society. Mr. Kariuki Kimathi, the Sub-County Chairman, addressed the gathering, stating that the facility had 292 boys participating in the ceremony. He assured the parents that they would be receiving their sons back as grown men, transformed from the boys they were when they arrived.

In addition to the ceremonial aspects, there was a strong emphasis on cultural preservation. Parents were urged to teach their children the Kikuyu language, noting communication challenges arising from a lack of proficiency in the language. This aspect of the ceremony underscores the community’s commitment to maintaining its linguistic and cultural heritage in a rapidly changing society.