Isukuti is a traditional dance performed by the Isukha and Idakho communities of Western Kenya. It is characterized by fast-paced, energetic and passionate movements accompanied by drumming and singing.
In addition to its use for cultural transmission and harmonious coexistence between families and communities, the ritual is present in most occasions and stages of life, including childbirth, initiations, marriage, funerals, commemorations, inaugurations, religious festivities, sporting events, and other public gatherings.
There is a widespread belief that the Bidakho are descendants of the ancestors of the Mwitakho. Drums are used in the performance, and they are played in musical sets of three – a big, a medium, and a small drum – which are normally accompanied by an antelope horn and various metal rattles.
The dance consists of a soloist singing texts related to the theme, the lyrics of which are accompanied by the drum rhythm and by the steps of the dancers arranged in separate rows for men and women.
Because of the lack of land and the changing lifestyles of the Bidakhos, most of them are now involved in dairy farming and on a smaller scale, tea farming. Maize, however, is their most widely grown crop, providing bushuma, their staple food. It is harvested bi-annually.
There is presently a decline in the transmission of Isukuti dance as well as the frequency of performances. In many cases, bearers are elderly and do not have successors to whom they can pass on their knowledge.
In addition to the lack of funds, there are also a number of materials needed to make the instruments and costumes. Last but not least, many composers prefer to work in more commercial genres, and audiences often sacrifice traditional Isukuti dances for contemporary entertainment.