Research

February 18, 2018 Big Fat African Weddings: Commercialisation of Traditional Culture, and Its Consequences

Prof. Goldsmith examines how the institution of marriage in parts of Africa—particularly Kenya—is being transformed by globalization, consumer culture, and…

August 20, 2017 High and Low or Light and Dark: The Illumination of Northern Kenya and the New Digital Divide

In this analysis, Prof. Goldsmith surveys the spatial and technological inequities that define modern Kenya, particularly focusing on how altitude,…

May 25, 2017 Miraa Is Unstoppable:The Case for Sorting out Kenya’s Convoluted Catha Edulis Agro-Industry

This article traces the complex history, cultural significance, and economic dynamics of miraa (Catha edulis) in Kenya, with particular focus…

March 31, 2017 Nyimbo Yatoka Ngomani: Rise and Fall of the Swahili Coast

The article explores the historical transformation of the Swahili Coast, tracing its evolution from a thriving center of maritime trade…