February, 2023
Gong Rocks of Lewa | Location: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
On the face of it the Rock Gongs are just rocks with strange cuplike depressions and random etchings. They are located in a remarkably scenic spot but rocks all the same. But don’t judge a book by its cover. The Rock Gongs are an incredible piece of history and a window into the early days of man. If Kenya is indeed the cradle of man then these gongs are a crucial part of the body of evidence in support of that position. The rocks are not just a sight, when struck with a hammer they produce a musical tone. The Samburu believe their ancestors are responsible for the design and sound of the rocks. In fact, the Gongs are one of their strongest connections to their forefathers and for this reason the community reveres the site. They community believes that their ancestors spent their most important moments at this site, moments of thanksgiving and communal celebration that were naturally preceded by sacrifice and prayer. Even during times of strife within the communities, this place remained peaceful. This explains why for generations the community has used this spot as a waystation and a meeting point, because at this timeless place, they feel a strong connection to their past, their culture and possibly their future.