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Originally published by Nation Counties
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July 31, 2026
5h ago

Dead serious: The funeral horns that refuse to die in Kisii

Dead serious: The funeral horns that refuse to die in Kisii

Low-cost funeral broadcasts persist despite mobile phones and social media growth...

✨ Key Highlights

In Kisii County, Kenya, a traditional method of announcing deaths using loud horns from vehicles persists despite the advent of modern technology. This practice involves two trips: one to the mortuary and another bringing the body home, ensuring the community is prepared.

  • Families pay between Sh3,000 and Sh5,000 for the funeral announcement service.
  • The tradition is particularly important for reaching older residents in rural areas, estimated at 70% without smartphones.
  • Younger generations, like Sharon Kemunto, find the announcements intrusive and suggest alternatives like WhatsApp, while elders like Mzee Abel Ombongi emphasize its cultural significance and broad reach.
  • Despite being criticized by the Gusii Council of Elders as unnecessary noise pollution, the funeral horns continue to be a vital, albeit controversial, communication tool.

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