The Gicandi is an ancient Kikuyu musical instrument from Kenya, also known as a rattle gourd. It’s an elongated, slender gourd decorated with Agĩkũyũ symbols, cowrie shells, and inscriptions. Inside, small pebbles (mwethia) and thorns (mĩigua ya muthi) create a rattling sound when shaken. The Gicandi is used in traditional ceremonies, storytelling, and social gatherings, often accompanying poetic performances.