Keny

Bao: Board Game History and Background Information

Bao is a traditional mancala board game played in most of East Africa, including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Comoros, and Malawi, as well as some areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The game has a long history, with its origins dating back to ancient times. The oldest Bao board is believed to be one from Malawi, dating back to no earlier than 1896, and is displayed at the British Museum. The game has been celebrated in various forms of art and literature, such as Swahili poet Muyaka bin Haji’s poem “Bao Naligwa” from the 1820s.

Why is Keny Popular?

Bao is a popular game in East Africa due to its cultural significance and the fact that it has been played for centuries. The game is often used to bring people together and has been passed down through generations through oral tradition.

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