How Kenyan Families Celebrate Christmas Away From Home

For Kenyans living abroad, Christmas takes on a different meaning as it becomes intertwined with cultural and family traditions.

In the heart of Denmark, Kenyan citizen Esther Bakhita celebrates her sixth Christmas away from home. While the festive season in a foreign land brings excitement, it also stirs a sweet blend of nostalgia for the familiar customs of Kenya. Esther reflects on cherished memories of celebrating Christmas in Kenya where time with her mother and the tradition of slaughtering a goat created enduring moments.

Esther plans to embrace the joy of gift-giving, a tradition unfamiliar in her Kenyan celebrations. To elevate the culinary experience, Nyama Choma will share the table with Danish delights, symbolizing the unity of her two worlds. Despite Denmark's typically intimate Christmas celebrations, Esther aims to infuse the season with the vivacity of Kenyan heritage by hosting friends and creating a lively celebration.

"Having your Kenyan friends around during this time makes you feel at home away from home," she shares.

Conversations in Kiswahili, reminiscences of home, and the taste of Kenyan dishes serve as a comforting bridge to Kenya, especially in the absence of these familiar elements that could intensify feelings of loneliness. Meanwhile, in Wellington, New Zealand, Persia embarks on her first Christmas away from home. Acknowledging the Kiwi tradition of summer travels during the holidays, Persia shares the excitement of experiencing a new Christmas landscape. Reflecting on cherished memories from Kenya, she yearns for the familiar gatherings and the cultural warmth of home.

However, surrounded by family in Wellington, she finds joy in their collective company, creating new traditions and bonds. In the vibrant Kenyan community of Wellington, the aroma of Nyama Choma becomes a unifying element. With a generous host offering their home, nearly seven families and individuals gather, echoing the Kenyan tradition of coming together during holidays. While Persia is open to exploring alternative celebrations, such as a holiday to Fiji, this Christmas remains dedicated to the cherished practice of gathering for mbuzi choma.