Is Cremation the Best Way To Evade Cultural Obligations?
Share
By James Obuchere
Following the death of Maureen Nyadida-Lukoye, wife of Professor Lukoye W’ Atwoli, his decision to have her cremated in accordance with her wishes has sparked discussion over traditional Luhya funeral practices and cultural obligations.
Professor Lukoye W’ Atwoli’s decision to cremate his late wife as per her will must have surprised many, including his father, Atwoli senior.
I can imagine the shock of friends and relatives who had converged at the deceased’s home, only to learn later that there won’t be a body for burial. Others who were planning to arrive once they learned of the funeral program had to cancel everything. Or just go and say ‘pole’ before returning to their respective homes.
But amid all this, I foresee basenje [aunts] and bakhootsa [uncles] castigating Dr. Lukoye for choosing that path that goes against the traditions of abaLuhya.
By the way, why do most aunts feel so free to lecture us on our faults?
Cremation and Cultural Obligations: Prof Lukoye Decision Goes Against Tradition
However, despite its criticism, this decision for Atwoli junior to cremate his wife has served many purposes:
- Eshikalili: This is a cow that’s given to a married woman’s relatives when she dies. Note that only men have a right to it.
Also Read: Francis Atwoli’s Son Announces Wife’s Death in Emotional Post
These relatives tend to threaten to disrupt the funeral procession in the event their demand is not granted. But here, there won’t be such threats. They can only be given whatever is available.
- There won’t be ‘ingokho yeshibanga’.
Normally, when someone dies outside the home, another opening is made in the fence through which the corpse must pass.
After the funeral, a chicken must be slaughtered so that those who seal this opening can feast on it.
- No ‘ingokho yeshilindwa’.
This one is offered to those who dig the grave.
- No ‘ingokho yabakambi’. This is the chicken that’s served to the clergymen [who preside over the funeral mass].
Also Read: Atwoli’s Wife, Ex-Deputy Governor Among 65 Shortlisted for Top Govt Jobs
- No ‘ingokho yamachienga’.
This is the chicken that’s roasted on amachienga [bonfire] and eaten by the deceased’s kinsmen.
So, obviously, cremation saves many chickens from slaughter, ama?
Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates.
A photo of Lukoye Atwoli and his late wife Maureen Nyadida-Lukoye who passed on September 8, 2026 after battling cancer. PHOTO/ Lukoye Atwoli.