Nandi is one of the Kalenjin subgroups. The Nandi has several clans (ortinuek) each associated with an animal (Tiondo).
The animals in question are meant to be respected by respective clans. It won't be hurt as that is considered as a taboo.
These clan symbols (tiondo) normally range from wild animals, frog, sun, birds, snake and more.
Nandi elders claimed that crested crane (Kong'ony) is the leader. It was first allocated. The last animal comes with several rules. It is called "kimaget" (Jackal).
Kalenjin ladies don't have a clan since they get married hence moving from one clan to the other (Cheptab oret age, ne wendi aret age)
Here the clans and their associated 'animals';
Kipkenda - Bee (Maimi Segemiat)
Kiboiis - Wild dog (Lelwot)
Mooi - Crested Crane (Kong'oony)
Kipsirgoi - Toreet (palee kut ak kutung')
Kipamui - Antelope (Kergeng)
Sogoom - Eagle (Chepsirereet)
Talai - Lion (Ng'etuny)
Kuutwo (Talai Orkoi) Lion (Ng'etuny) (Talai Nandi)
Kipoongoi (che kwees tibiik) -Taiyweet
Kibiegen (kap rat setio let) - Monkey (Moseet) and Rat (Muriat)
Kipaa (koros)- Snake (Ndareet), Baboon (Tisiet), Moriso
Toiyoi - Rain (ropta) and Safari Ants (Birechik)
Kap Oiit - Elephant (Beliot, kiramkeel koe mooi) and rabbit (Kipleng'wet)
Kipasiiso (Kap koluu)Asista (Sun)
Kuchwa - Frog (Mororochet)
Tungo (korap oor) - Hyena (Kimageetiet)
Kiptabkei - vervet monkey (Chereret)
Identification using this symbols is now getting forgotten by new generations.
It is considered important since according to Kalenjin Oreet customs, a man cannot marry from the same clan.
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