Activity

Learn how to play Nyama-Nyama-Nyama, a traditional East African game that strengthens focus, listening skills, and vocabulary related to animals and food.

Prep work

• [ ] Read about Nyama-Nyama-Nyama [HERE].
• [ ] Locate Kenya and some other countries located in East Africa on a map and briefly discuss the importance of livestock and animals in daily life.

Lesson

• Nyama means “meat” or “animal” in Swahili.
• Review the rules of the game:
  • One player calls out different animals.
  • If the animal called is one that is eaten, players must respond with an agreed-upon action (jump up and say nyama or clap).
  • If the animal is not one that is eaten, players must remain still.
  • Anyone who makes a mistake is eliminated.
• Begin slowly to ensure understanding, and then increase speed to make the game more challenging.
• Rotate leaders so each student has a turn calling out items.
• Discuss: Why is it important to listen carefully before reacting? How did this game challenge your attention? Is this game similar to another you know?

Bookmarks

• Nyama-nyama-nyama