karibu nyumbani
being maragoli
The Maragoli, or Logoli (Ava-Logooli), are the 2nd largest ethnic group numbering around 2.1m, or 15% - of the 6 m Luhya nation in Kenya (14.34% of the total population - 2019 census).
The name Maragoli probably emerged after interaction with missionaries of the Quaker Church. The language Logoli, Lulogooli, Ululogooli, or Maragoli.
Maragoli also refers to the area the descendants of a man called Mulogooli (also known as Maragoli) settled and occupied in the 13th century AD in Vihiga county.
Sub-tribes
Maragolis occupy the largest part of Vihiga followed by Abanyore then Tiriki sub tribes.
Maragoli clans include the:
● Va-Masingira
● Va-Gonda
● Va-Mavi (nana)
● Va-Sachi
● Va-Saniaga
● Va-Vulughi
● Va-Ndega
● Va-Sali (grandpa / guga)
● Va-Ng'ang'a
● Va-Yonga
● Va-Twa
● Va-Gisemba
(The prefix Va- refers to the people or descendants - sometimes written as Ba-, Ava-, or Aba-)
Dialect
The Maragolis' unique culture is perceived as complex to other Luhya subtribes. The Lulogooli dialect may not be easily understood by other Luhya subtribes, Maragolis however understand most of the languages spoken in Luhya land.
Movement
Many Maragolis have migrated to other areas due to land scarcity and have formed settlements in Trans-Nzoia, Lugari District.
Lineage
Reflective of their value of lineage, Maragolis have transferred their own local names to the places they have currently occupied. They have cloned their own places so as to preserve their identity. They also name their children after their ancestors.