The Bukusu (Babukusu) are the largest Luhya sub-tribe and trace their origins to Mwambu and Sela, the first man and woman said to have been created by God (Were) at a place called Sibembe near Mount Elgon (Masaba). Their founding ancestor Mubukusu is credited with establishing circumcision as a rite of passage. The Bukusu migrated from the Mount Elgon region and settled in present-day Bungoma County. They are renowned for their vibrant circumcision ceremonies (Khuminya) held every even-numbered year.
How they identify
Person (singular)Omubukusu
People (plural)Babukusu
HomelandEbukhayo
Language / dialectBukusu
A member introduces themselves: “Ndi Omubukusu” — from the land of Ebukhayo.