Radio Feature: “The Nandi: Guardians of the Night”
The story traces the roots of the Nandi people, members of the larger Kalenjin family, and explores how night weddings served to protect couples from evil spirits, promote communal unity, and preserve the sanctity of marriage.
A cinematic exposure artwork by Hubz AI, merging the grandeur of a post-apocalyptic Great Rift Valley landscape with an intimate night wedding scene of Kalenjin men and women. Bathed in moonlight and starlit skies, the image captures an emotional fusion of love, resilience, and cultural beauty — rendered in warm tones and moody lighting.
Summary – Radio Feature by Faith Jepletin
(Faith Jepletin, journalist from the Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, attached to the Eldoret Media Hub)
Faith Jepletin’s radio feature, “The Nandi: Guardians of the Night,” delves into the fascinating world of the Nandi community, illuminating the enduring cultural practice of night wedding ceremonies. Through a blend of soft instrumentals, traditional Nandi flute music, and immersive sound effects, the feature transports listeners into the heart of Nandi traditions—where marriage is not just a union but a sacred ritual steeped in symbolism and spirituality.
The story traces the roots of the Nandi people, members of the larger Kalenjin family, and explores how night weddings served to protect couples from evil spirits, promote communal unity, and preserve the sanctity of marriage. Interviews with elders and historians enrich the narrative, providing insight into clan organization, the age-set system, and moral customs surrounding family and respect.
By layering authentic cultural sounds—drums, songs, and ululations—Faith captures both the joy and solemnity that define these nocturnal celebrations. Her feature highlights the Nandi’s deep sense of identity, discipline, and reverence for tradition, portraying them as a community guided by values that transcend generations.
Production Credits:
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Reporter/Producer: Faith Jepletin
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Institution: Kenya Coast National Polytechnic
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Attachment: Eldoret Media Hub
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Feature Title: The Nandi: Guardians of the Night
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