Perceptions of bride wealth in the 21st century among the urban Agikuyu in Nairobi

Abstract

The practice of presenting gifts to the bride's family is one that has gone on for generations amongst the Agikuyu people. However, the contemporary society has experienced significant developments which have influenced people's perceptions regarding it. The general objective of this study was to investigate the perceptions of the urban Agikuyu regarding bridewealth in the 21st Century. The study sought to determine the significance of bridewealth, to examine the different forms of bridewealth exchanged between marriage partners and to examine the changing perceptions as regards bridewealth. The study was confined to only the Agikuyu ethnic community and more specifically to the people living in urban areas. The research targeted 100 respondents who live in Westlands Division in Nairobi Province. Stratified random sampling was used to select the individuals. The cross-sectional exploratory research design was employed for the researcher to delve into the perceptions of the respondents. Both primary and secondary methods of data collection were used to garner quantitative and qualitative data. The survey was the main instrument of data collection and the technique made use of a standard questionnaire with both open and close ended questions. This was supported by 10 key informant interviews. Documentary materials, through library research provided secondary data. The study ascertained that as much as many want to continue to uphold the Agikuyu tradition for cultural identity, a significant number do not know or understand the root of the practice nor its value. More or less the same items are asked for as bridewealth but these are given in the form of money. In addition a growing number of people feel that they should not ask for it. The -oerceptions on bridewealth are changing due to factors such as religion and cross-cultural marriages