Marombo / Morobo / Marobo Dance (Agĩkũyũ Children’s Singing Game)

Marombo (also pronounced Morobo or Marobo) is a traditional children’s singing game from the Agĩkũyũ community of Kenya. Agikuyu community is the largest in Kenya and is found on the central region (Mt. Kenya). It is performed by young boys and girls as a playful combination of music, rhythm, and coordinated movement.

Participants & Formation

Children (both boys and girls) take part.

They form a circle, all squatting.

Each child holds a maize cob or a small stone in their right hand.

Another cob (or stone) is placed on the ground in front of the left hand side.

How the Game Works¹

1. Striking the Ground:

At the beginning of the song, all children strike the ground simultaneously with the cob in their right hand. This produces a rhythmic beat that sets the tempo for the game.

2. Picking and Passing:

Immediately after striking:

Each child picks up the cob placed in front of them (which belongs to their left-hand neighbor).

They then pass it to the neighbor on their right.

3. Continuous Circular Motion:

The cobs move around the circle in a steady, synchronized flow, matching the rhythm of the simple melody sung by the children.

4. Return to the Starting Point:

Eventually, each cob completes a full circle and returns to its original owner.

Musical & Social Elements

The children sing a simple, repetitive melody, making the activity enjoyable and lively.

Timing and coordination are very important—this is where the fun lies:

A quick child keeps the game flowing smoothly.

A slow child may fail to pass the cob in time, causing cobs to pile up in front of them, which is a source of laughter and amusement for the group.

Cultural Significance

Encourages teamwork, rhythm, and coordination.

Strengthens social bonding among children.

Acts as an informal way of teaching timing, responsiveness, and musical skills.

Preserves an important part of Agĩkũyũ oral and musical heritage.