Five indigenous games to build character and strength of young Mosopisiek men
In contemporary Sebei society, long-distance running is extremely popular. But apart from harvesting medals & money, does running also build character & leadership skills of young people? After sharing with Mosopisiek elders in Mount Elgon’s highlands, I know one thing for sure: Back in the days indigenous games rocked it! Various games used to help boys transform from childhood into adulthood. In this blog five indigenous games to build character and strength of young men:
1) Bow & arrow
Shoot as far as possible or hit a specific target. Mosopisiek fathers used to teach their sons not only the art of shooting, but also the welding techniques on how to manufacture a spear. Work that needs a lot of focus and concentration. Shooting was a relevant skill too, as the bow & arrow were used to protect cattle and family members during a Pokot or Nandi raid.
2) Survival runs
The forest lands of the Ndorobos are known for its elevation and streams. Running up and down the hills, jumping over rivers and chasing lost animals were perfect ways of building endurance and resilience in young men. In a day, the young runners would easily cover 40 or 50 kilometer.
Does this genetic advantage explain the contemporary success of long-distance runners from this region? Probably!
Jacob Kiplimo and Joshua Cheptegei, two Mosopisiek grandsons and world champions
3) Stone throwing
To train accuracy and strength, throwing small stones over the tallest trees used to be a serious game. And trees in Ndorobos land can be high!
4) Wrestling
Wrestling used to be performed right after lunch. It would keep Ndorobos boys active and focused. Common practice was to put a stick in the middle of a circle. The first contestant would plant the stick, followed by the person who would accept the challenge. Wrestling could be a fun and powerful exercise at the same time.
5) Stick fighting
Stick fighting would be done with bamboo sticks from the forest. A perfect exercise to train the focus and responsiveness of young minds.
You can experience stick fighting at the Cave Complex, at a 20 minutes walk from Home of Friends.
I am curious what you think of this blog. Leave a comment in the section below.
This blog is written by Daan Oxener, a Dutch social entrepreneur who is based in Kapchorwa since 2016. Daan manages Home of Friends Guesthouse, together with his fiancé Eliza. He is passionate about documenting Mount Elgon’s beautiful nature and remarkable culture. Daan is also engaged in Community & youth empowerment through adventure tourism.