History speaks through the magnificent statues in the streets of Nairobi CBD. They are silent witnesses to the long and often under-told story of Kenya, and they serve as enduring symbols of the nation’s rich heritage, our arduous struggles and most importantly, our triumphs.
If you ever take a walk down Kenyatta Avenue, you’ll be greeted by a rather subtle stature of three young figures in a frozen juxtaposition. Telling the story of culture, heritage and assimilation. Telling the story of war, rebellion & indoctrination.
Jomo Kenyatta
At the very heart of the city, neighbouring the supreme court stands an elevated statue of Jomo Kenyatta. Known to some as the Father of the Nation. His statue is a powerful tribute to Kenya’s first president and a reminder of the country’s struggle for independence.
Tom Mboya
Along Moi Avenue in Nairobi, stands a monument to a hero gone too soon. It was erected in 2011 in honour of Prof. Tom Mboya, a Kenyan government minister who was assassinated in 1969.
The suspicions came and went; the real perpetrators remained anonymous. But here’s the kicker, The monument stands about twenty metres from where Mboya was actually gunned down.
In honor of a labor leader and nationalist who played a crucial role in the shaping of post-colonial KE. The statue remains a beacon of hope to Kenyans worldwide.
Mahatma Gandhi
Within the boundaries of the University of Nairobi, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, a potent symbol of non-violence and peace.
This tribute to a foreign figure pays homage to Kenya’s ties with India, the worldwide struggle against colonialism and the shared history between the two lands.Now, amongst all these iconic figures, one statue holds a special place in the hearts of the Kenyan people.
Dedan Kimathi
At the junction of Kimathi Street and Mama Ngina Street stands a bronze statue of a true legend of Kenyan history, Dedan Kimathi. A fearless leader of the Mau Mau uprising, who literally dedicated his life to the fight against colonial rule.
This statue of Kimathi, wielding a rifle and clad in traditional attire, is not just a homage to the man. It’s a tribute to the spirit of resistance and to the unwavering dedication to freedom.
Today, Kimathi’s face still adorns the walls of Nairobi in the form of street art and graffiti, he remains a living part of Nairobi’s urban landscape. Appearing on the city’s walls & on t-shirts worn by teenagers is an undeniable testament to his lasting impact on the youth of our country.
Although it has been decades since he passed on, his spirit continues to resonate with the younger generation, inspiring them with his tales of valor and dedication to the ultimate cause: Physical, mental & spiritual freedom.
So, next time, as you walk the streets of Nairobi and encounter these silent storytellers, take a moment. Rudi nyumbani.
By J.K.Raminya
