Colour symbolism in Africa: A historical perspective Prof. Nyamache Tom*, Principal, Ms. Nyambura Ruth**, Research Scholar * Mt. Kenya University, Nakuru Campus, P.O Box 17273–20100, Nakuru, Kenya ** Egerton University, Research Co-ordinator, Mt. Kenya University, Nakuru Campus, P.o Box 17273–20100, Nakuru, Kenya Online published on 13 February, 2012. Abstract Africans have visibly continued to embrace colour for various symbolic meanings, particularly with regard to clothing within a variety of settings. Clothes bearing varying colours are often the most visible elements during ceremonies. The colours of these clothes often reflect the occasion and define an individual's participation in the ceremony. This paper aims to reveal some of the general functions of colours in diverse African rituals and ceremonies. Data was collected from three sources: observations, secondly was through literature search in the library. Lastly through the researcher's personal experiences and interactions with the people within Nakuru town. The findings established that colour plays a prominent role as a visual symbol for African ceremonies or ritual occasions, establishing identities of individuals and defining relationships. Top Keywords Colour(s), symbol(s), symbolics, African(s). Top |