Sports and games are an integral aspect of a nation’s cultural heritage; stadiums and arenas that host these sporting events are avenues of cultural expression. Kenya’s multipurpose Moi International Sports Complex in Kasarani, just 15km from the city centre along Thika Road, is one such hub that has witnessed the beauty of our diverse cultures, especially during the football derbies it hosts.
One derby whose echoes and sounds are known at Kasarani is the Mashemeji Derby, a passionate clashing of two historical rivals, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards. The derby’s name directly translates to “in-laws”, as there are close cultural ties between the Luhya community whose majority are AFC Leopards fans, and the Luo community that ramps up support for Gor Mahia. Its intensity is fueled by cultural differences that have existed in history between these two communities which are core to their fanbase and formation. So, courtesy of their immense pride in their different heritages and traditions, this derby brings more than just a sizzling pot of die-hard fans and sensational gameplay, but also an exhibition of the different cultures of these two sides.
On derby days, the unmistakable thumping of isukuti drums of Western Kenya permeates the air from the Leopards’ end of the stadium, accompanied by the piercing blow of an antelope horn. This is soothed by the fans singing as they dance in waves to the instrumentals’ rhythms.
Fans on Gor Mahia’s end of the bleachers pick up the heat, and their hearts swell with passion and excitement. In victorious optimism, they lift their soulful voices and break into songs. This cues in skilled Gor drummers who line up their Bongos – long traditional Luo drums made of wood and metal supported by animal hide, and strap their Bul up – round, hollow traditional drums made of cow or donkey skin in readiness for joyous noise that will silence the opposition. At the loud ring of their percussion instruments the fans go berserk, and a musical ensemble erupts.
Besides the results of the derby being written on Kasarani’s scoreboard, match attendees showcase and witness the richness of our cultural heritage. Truly, Kasarani is a place of beautiful sports folklore and a glorious live expo of our wonderful cultural elements of song and dance. Here, you find community, and within it is where our #KeCultureLives.