01/07/2026
The Pokomo traditional cultural dance is a high-energy, rhythmic performance originating from the Pokomo people of the Tana River basin, which frequently takes the center stage as a major highlight during the annual Lamu Cultural Festival held on Lamu Island.
Types of Pokomo DancesThe Pokomo people use diverse styles of music and movement to mark significant life milestones, seasons, and social events
Miri: A high-energy, competitive dance performed by young men and women during weddings and milestone celebrations to outshine one another.
Kittoko / Kitoko: A celebratory dance performed by the entire community during joyful occasions like a bountiful harvest, welcoming special guests, or weddings.
Kingika (also known as Kuphanga): Traditionally danced by women to celebrate childbirth and welcome a new mother back into the community after her confinement period.
Mwaribe: A youth dance accompanied by drums during circumcision ceremonies, where boys traditionally wear skirts made of Doum Palm fronds.
Washingo: A fast-paced, high-intensity variant of the Kitoko dance featuring complex group coordination and variations.
Features and CostumesInstruments: The dances are heavily driven by vocals and the rhythmic pulse of traditional sacred drums like the Kirumbuu or Ngoma.Attire: Performers wear traditional coastal garments, including beautifully woven skirts crafted from the fronds of the local Doum Palm (Mkoma leaves).Lamu Festival Presence: While the Pokomo homeland is along the Tana River, their dance troupes are major attractions at the Lamu Fort Square during cultural exchanges on Lamu Island, blending seamlessly with local Swahili Vugo and Goma dances.