kurias

The Kuria are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group native to East Africa, primarily found in western Kenya and adjoining parts of northern Tanzania. In Kenya, they are concentrated in Migori County and nearby areas, while in Tanzania they are present in regions such as Tarime. The community refers to themselves as Wakurya, and their language, Kuria, is part of the Bantu language family. Many Kuria are multilingual, commonly speaking Swahili and English in addition to Kuria.

Culturally, the Kuria have a clan-based social structure and place emphasis on family lineage. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, with crops such as bananas, maize, and cassava, along with livestock keeping. Small-scale trade and cross-border movement with neighboring communities also contribute to livelihoods. Traditional arts, music, and dance form part of community life, and intergroup contact with groups like the Kisii, Luo, and Maasai has influenced cultural practices over time.

Religion among the Kuria today is diverse: Christianity (notably Catholic and Protestant denominations) is widespread, Islam is practiced by a minority in some areas, and traditional beliefs persist among others or in syncretic forms. Education and modernization have shaped contemporary identity, while language and cultural practices continue to be maintained within families and community organizations.

Historically, the Kuria have inhabited their plateau and river valley regions for centuries and were incorporated into the colonial and post-colonial states of Kenya and Tanzania. Today they are part of a cross-border community with ongoing efforts to preserve language and cultural heritage while participating in national political and economic life.