Remembering how Nakuru marked Jamhuri Day years ago

Samuel Wagura Wanjohi, the 77 year old born and raised in Nakuru leaning back in the corridor where he stands reminisces about the Jamhuri Day celebrations of yesteryears.

“Back in the day, we used to gather at Nakuru Athletics Club (NAC) the night before, sharing laughter on top of our voices. Then, on Jamhuri day itself, the entire town would converge at the Afraha Stadium, a sea of faces celebrating when Kenya became a republic. The air buzzed with patriotic fever,” Mr Wanjohi discloses.

Mr Wanjohi sighs that things changed immediately there was a change of the constitution in 2010, and that traditions shifted with the new constitution.

Mr Wanjohi says, “The NAC gatherings are no longer there, and the vibrant Stadium celebrations seem like distant echoes of the past. People as well will open shops unlike years back.
Nowadays, people engage in different ways, and the sense of community I no longer there.”

Watch: What Jamhuri Day means for Nakuru residents

Mr Wanjohi points out that it is no different for him as over half a decade now, he finds himself celebrating Jamhuri day in a different manner. The buzz of the stadium has given way to the glow of the television screen.

“Over the years, I join the nationwide celebration by watching it on TV, which is a different experience. I wish people would bring back the tangible energy of those nights at NAC,” he explains.

Mr Wanjohi points out that although the times have shifted, he holds fast to the essence of tradition.

“I strive to instil in my children and grandchildren the significance of gathering at the Stadium for national holidays.”

Mr Wanjohi concludes that his influence on his children and grandchildren to be part of the stadium celebration is to ensure that the spirit of patriotism will one day come back and forever live
in the hearts of the next generation, regardless of the evolving traditions and ever changing times.
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