Entertainment

Kulture Krunch: Moko Jumbie

Brought to you By: KFC

Loop News

February 25, 2025 6:26 PM ET

2 mins read

Towering over the crowd in majestic costumes, the Moko Jumbie presents an otherworldly, magical figure and is one of the defining characters of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival. 

Tekel Sylvan, who portrayed the Moko Jumbie character in KFC’s 2025 Carnival campaign ‘Kunch Mode’, has carried the flag of Trinidad and Tobago by performing as this mythical figure in various countries around the world. 

Sylvan said this character is one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most important cultural characters and must be preserved. 

According to the National Carnival Commission’s website, the Moko Jumbie derives its name from West African culture; the Moko is an Orisha (God) of retribution. The Moko Jumbie is regarded as a protector, whose towering height makes it easier for them to see evil before ordinary men. 

Moko Jumbies can tower as high as 15 to 20 feet high while walking on stilts, wearing dazzling costumes and performing daring feats; a sight truly not to be missed.