Synonymous with the late Kenyan musician Job Seda, well-known as Ayub Ogada, is this masterpiece stringed-instrument called Nyatiti. Not that he was the creator or designer of it, but the enchanting melodies and sounds from the strumming Nyatiti in his popular tracks like Kothbiro and others were the leap from obscurity to the global stage for this instrument.

What is Nyatiti? Where did this musical instrument come from? Its cultural significance?

In a part of the Great Rift Valley in Eastern Africa, across the rich agricultural landscape of Kenya are people of diverse cultures and traditions with rich musical heritage that spans several generations. Among the many treasures of the Luo tribe of the Western part of Kenya is the Nyatiti, a traditional eight-stringed lyre that weaves enchanting melodies, stories, and history.

The Nyatiti is not just another musical instrument to the litany of African musical instruments. It's a symbol of Kenyan culture and heritage. This traditional music piece, which looks slightly like a harp, has a half-calabash belly covered with dried cow-hide, two connected wooden rods with strings made of animal tendons or fishing lines in between, and decorated with beads for an aesthetic feel.

Aside from being a musical instrument and cultural symbol for Kenya, the Nyatiti is a key instrument in storytelling about the Luo people as their traditions and history are passed on from one generation to another orally. The Nyatiti is used to tell the story of love, joy, pain, and everyday life of its people.

The Nyatiti like any other instrument requires lots of practice, a master’s touch, and sometimes, a natural aptitude to play it.  It is plucked with the thumbs and index fingers, creating soothing, melodic sounds that evoke a sense of nostalgia and belonging.

Despite the changing times, Nyatiti remains and finds its place in contemporary music as artists such as the late Ayub Ogada incorporate its sounds into their compositions, creating unique sounds.

Some noteworthy artists who play the Nyatiti are Rapasa Otieno, Udulele, Kamba Nane, and others.

In conclusion, The Nyatiti is not just a musical instrument. It's a testament to Kenya's cultural diversity and the power of music to connect people across time and space.

The Image above is Nyatiti, an African Musical Instrument with origin from the Luo people of Kenya.

Nyatiti: Kenya Enchanting Musical Treasure

Related Blogs