The Role of Ornaments among the Agikuyu: A Case Study of the Agikuyu of Kikuyu

Abstract

This thesis is a systematic attempt to critically analyse the use and functions of ornaments among the Agikuyu of Kikuyu Division. It discusses the changes that have occurred in the significance of the ornaments, and the factors contributing to the changes. The main objectives of the study was to establish the degree of change in the use of ornaments and how far these changes are attributed to external influences. This research was done in Kikuyu Division of Kiambu District, between January and March 1990. The data collection methods were interviews, group discussions, literary sources as well as artifacts and associated documents found in the National Museum in Nairobi. A qualitative data analysis procedure was employed. The study arrived at two main conclusions. One, the environment is a major that contributes to the material culture of any society, in this case the Agikuyu of Kikuyu. Two, contact the non-Gikuyu and the non-African societies contributed to the in the significance and functions of ornaments among the Agikuyu of Kikuyu Division. Thus, it could be stated that the major factors that contribute to changes in material culture are environmental changes and interaction or contact of societies or society with alien ones. This kind of study is an important source of information not only to the Agikuyu about their material culture (in this case ornaments) but also a good source of reference on the African traditions necessary to retain for pride and identity.