THE POKOMO

Traditions of origin and settlements of the Wapokomo are that Shungwaya must have been the original home of a number of clans, not only of the Pokomo, but also of Taita, Digo, Giriama and Segeju/Katwa tribes. The Wapokomo say that they were friends of the Galla until the latter began to covet their herds of cattle, resulting in wars, which made the Wapokomo to emigrate. They re- assembled and settled in a place remembered as Dana Sukutu along the Tana. After some centuries, they were attacked by the Galla.

Sometimes back ancestors (living dead) used to wear skins from goats or sheeps. They were used to cover the lower part of body. Some used to wear the barks of big trees. Most woman used banana leaves as a woman respective attire. There is also a mode of dressing meaned for woman called mahando. This was worn during traditional dances and it is made from sisal.

Boys and girls performing in a ceremony

Young ladies using sisal ti make mats 

The Pokomo council of elders are known as Gasa. They deal with solvinmarriage, land, disputes  and family conflicts and others.
The Pokomo dances include Kitoko, Mwaribe, Miri among others and these are usually performed at various ceremonies. The passage to adulthood for men is by initiation which involves circumcision – kuhinywa.

During ceremonies thee Pokomo people would come together as one and show love by performing different songs and dances.