“Nkai Minya Iyie Nanya Ltung’ani” in Samburu language literally means: “God, you cannot eat what man can eat.” Metaphorically it means, “God’s plans are not man’s plans.”

I love the cultural character and color found in local idioms, metaphors, wisdom sayings and other forms of figurative speech. Nothing in my background would have led me to connect God not eating man’s food with God’s ways being higher than ours. But then again, getting “cold feet,” needing to “bite the bullet” or feeling like the “black sheep” of the family are figures of our speech that do not translate well to other cultures without explanation either!

Today’s song was recorded in Maralal, Kenya as part of a local song project to encourage the composition of Christian songs using local song styles. We recorded several artists who had never been recorded before – very exciting for us and them. 

The composer and lead singer in today’s song is Lydia Leehore. She is joined by her church choir from ECCA Maralal and a few guests. The song is in a traditional style that is usually a cappella but is accompanied here by keyboardist Charles Gishuki. The body movement of upper torso, neck and shoulders is the core dance movement of the Samburu people. The beautiful beadwork, predominantly red clothing and women’s capes are also Samburu traditions of which the Samburu are very proud. We were privileged to work with them. 

Enjoy!