Implications of Coronavirus (Covid-19) on the Stability of the Luo Cultural Funeral Ceremonies in Kenya

Abstract

Abstract: The paper reveals the circumstances that may cause change in the Luo cultural funeral practices. One such circumstance is the emergence of COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 is a global issue however it has a great impact on the Luo cultural funeral ceremonies that were basically considered very extravagant and economically impoverishing the bereaved families. The paper therefore revisits some funeral practices world over that can give the community some insights into what can be adapted to ease this endemic burden. Therefore, the study clearly demonstrates that changes in cultural rites can be as a result of some causal factors such as disease pandemics, wars, infusion of religious customs and ancestral deeds among others. In this regard, changing the Luo cultural funeral ceremonies is inevitable.