Expanding on Kalenjin Traditional Marriage: Rituals and Modern Influences The Kalenjin traditional marriage process is rich in rituals that serve not only as a celebration of the union between two people but also as a way of honoring cultural values, family roles, and community traditions. Below, we will explore these rituals in more detail and how modern influences are shaping the marriage practices today. --- Detailed Traditional Rituals 1. Bride Price Negotiation (Koito) The bride price, Koito, is central to the Kalenjin marriage process and symbolizes respect and responsibility. Traditionally, the groom's family will engage in negotiations with the bride's family, and the dowry usually consists of cattle, goats, and sheep. In the past, a higher dowry was seen as a reflection of the bride’s value, her family’s status, and her readiness for marriage. While the livestock amount is still essential in the traditional sense, it is not always the same today. In some cas...
