Animal-based indigenous games
They are traditional games that are inspired by the movement, behavior, or characteristics of animals.
These games are typically played by children in African communities, especially in rural areas, and are
passed down through generations.
🐾 Characteristics of Animal-Based Indigenous Games
1. Imitate animal behavior or movement – like slithering, hopping, flying, or crawling.
2. Promote physical activity – running, chasing, crawling, etc.
3. Teach survival skills – alertness, teamwork, defense, and attack.
4. Passed down culturally – often linked to local beliefs and traditions.
5. Played outdoors – using minimal or no equipment.
🦁 Examples of Animal-Based Indigenous Games in Kenya
Game Name Animal Imitated Description
Children line up and move like a snake. The head tries to
Nyoka Snake 🐍
catch the tail.
Mbwa na Kuku Dog and Hen 🐶🐔 One player (dog) chases others (hens) who run and hide.
Simba na Lion and The “lion” chases “goats” who must stay in a circle or
Mbuzi Goats 🦁🐐 “pen.”
Kondoo na Sheep and Dog The “dog” protects sheep from being taken by another
Mbwa 🐑🐕 player.
Children mimic elephant stomping and moving, often in
Ndovu Elephant 🐘
storytelling games.
📚 Learning Outcomes in CBC (Competency-Based
Curriculum)
These games are aligned with Early Years Education (EYE) and Middle School levels,
especially in:
Physical and Health Education: Enhancing coordination, strength, and endurance.
Social Studies / Environmental Activities: Understanding animals and ecosystems.
Creative Arts: Use of movement, rhythm, and dramatization.
🐍 Nyoka Indigenous Game
1. Name of the Game:
Nyoka – Kiswahili word for Snake
2. Animal Imitated:
Snake
3. Number of Players:
Minimum: 5 players
No maximum (more fun with more players)
4. How to Play:
Children form a straight line, each holding the waist or shoulders of the one in front.
The first child becomes the head of the snake, and the last is the tail.
The “snake” then moves around in a zigzag pattern, with the head trying to catch or
tag the tail.
The body (middle players) must stay connected and help protect the tail by twisting,
bending, and turning.
If the line breaks, the game pauses or restarts.
5. Rules:
The line must not break during movement.
The head can only tag the tail; no pushing or pulling is allowed.
Once the head tags the tail, the game can restart with a new head.
6. Skills and Values Developed:
Skill / Value How It Is Developed
Physical fitness Through running, bending, and coordination
Teamwork and cooperation Players must move as one unit to succeed
Agility and flexibility The snake must twist and turn quickly
Focus and strategy The head must outsmart the tail while staying in line
Skill / Value How It Is Developed
Cultural identity Celebrates traditional African knowledge and animal life
7. Subject Relevance in CBC:
Physical and Health Education (PHE): Enhances movement, body coordination, and
fitness.
Environmental Activities / Social Studies: Links with knowledge about animal life.
Life Skills: Promotes cooperation, creativity, and communication.
