Nyama Nyama Nyama

Today we look back at a game for the little ones. “One, two, make a circle,” is how it would begin. If we’re to look back, how many lunch breaks did we spend debating whether we could eat rabbit or even crocodile? “Apana, hiyo sio nyama,” would be a common response from time to time.

As we stood in that circle, little did we know we were learning so much about our world; the different kind of animals and their names, and whether we could eat them or not. In this game, we would learn about working together to make a perfect circle. Additionally, we learned good sportsmanship: receiving our losses with grace and winning without bragging.

The laughter of young children when someone would jump for a non-edible meat and the deafening volume at which they would say “Nyama!” are a few reasons this game will always bring a smile to our faces. Even now, no one can truly resist a short game, simply to relive the joys of their younger days.

Have a young friend that loves to play this? Maybe you’ve heard some kids in the estate shouting “Nyama Nyama Nyama?” Share your stories with us!