| dc.description.abstract | This study examined the ethnoarchaeological burial practices of the Abasuba of Rusinga Island, 0 n
Lake Victoria of Western Kenya. The burial practices, factors influencing their performance and
inferences that can be made from the remains were the major issues that were probed. Specifically, the
study aimed at investigating, documenting and explaining factors that influence the burial practices
accorded the deceased Abasuba on the Island. The findings were also to be used in making
archaeological inferences to assist in explaining and interpreting archaeological burials.
The population consisted of all the adult residents or the Island. The study sample was purposively
selected with individuals being the unit of analysis. Interview guides, a standard questionnaire with
open-ended questions and direct observation were the techniques of data collection. The d~ta were
sorted out, described, interpreted and explained as per the research objectives. Ethnographic
summaries, content analysis, direct quotations and selected comments from informants were used in
the data presentation. Quantitative data were presented using tables of frequencies and percentages.
The findings suggest that burial practices accorded the dead resemble the social position t hey held
whilst alive. The society's perception and differentiation of its members are manifested in how the
deceased are disposed of in this society. Social status, demographic factors and cause of death are the
main factors influencing the Abasuba burial practices. Distance from the burial place, personal
attributes and forces of modernization also dictate the way burials are conducted in the study area. The
above factors manifest themselves physically in such things as the grave location, body treatments,
body position and orientation in the grave.
On the basis of the findings, archaeologists call in fer that burial practices are behavioural elements of
socio-cultural systems and have material correlates. Understanding the contemporary burials facilitates
the development and refinement of insights into the past behaviour. | en |
