Material Culture of the Pokot in Kenya: With Special Reference to Circulation of Articles

Abstract

This paper presents the report on the circulation of material culture and foodstuff among the Pokot people in western Kenya. More than half the articles of the families studied are made by the family members, while about 40% are produced outside Chesegon, the study area. Metal and cloth made articles make up most of what are obtained at market, shops or outside Chesegon. More than 70% of all kinds of material culture can remain in good condition for more than ten years, though more than 80% of all articles are actually renewed within ten years. Material culture of the Pokot is composed of many quickly rotating articles and a few durable articles.