Activity

Learn how to play Giuthi, a traditional mancala-style strategy game played by the Kikuyu people of central Kenya. Giuthi develops counting skills, strategic thinking, and planning ahead.

Prep work

• [ ] Read about Giuthi in Math Games and Activities from Around the World, pg. 28-29. (If you do not have the book, you can learn more about Giuthi [HERE].)
• [ ] Gather a playing board. You may:
  1. Print the Giuthi game board from the Global Explorers Club documents.
  2. Create a Giuthi board using an egg carton (12 cups) and two small bowls.
  3. Use a purchased mancala board.
• [ ] Gather 72 counters (seeds, beans, pebbles, etc.) to represent “cattle in the fields.” Place 6 in each hole.
• [ ] Gather 2 small bowls or cups to serve as “sheds.”
• [ ] Locate Kenya on a map and identify the central highlands where the Kikuyu people live.

Lesson

• Play a practice round together. What strategy do you find works best?
• Giuthi is a “sowing” game, where players distribute pieces around the board in a circular pattern.
• Review the rules on how to play in Math Games and Activities from Around the World or follow the guide found [HERE].