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Private Photographer Who Charmed His Way into Late President Moi’s Life

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David Namu delivering the iconic portrait of the late President Daniel Moi. Working as a photographer, Namu became one of the late president’s favourites from the battery of journalists covering his events. www.businesstoday.co.ke
David Namu delivering the iconic portrait of the late President Daniel Moi. Working as a photographer, Namu became one of the late president’s favourites from the battery of journalists covering his events. [Photo/ SULEIMAN MBATIAH]
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When the Bible says that your skill will afford you a seat at the high table among kings, this may sound farfetched but it does happen.

For one David Namu, President Daniel Arap Moi came to know him through his trade.

Working as a photographer, Namu became one of the late president’s favourites from the battery of journalists covering his events.

At a time when power was idolised, Namu had unfettered access to the president and annals chronicle this with the best being the iconic photograph that he took of the former president.

Serving Before Kings

Biblically, Proverbs 22:29 rings true for Namu.

The scripture reads: Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

Also, read The Only ‘Mad Woman’ Who Defied Moi

The book of proverbs which gives guidance for everyday living is a testament that those who heed wisdom prosper. Much.

Here is the final work that Namu has done as the country says goodbye to the second president.

David Namu setting up the iconic portrait of the late President Daniel Moi at Kabarak. Namu was one of the late president’s favourites from the battery of journalists covering his events. www.businesstoday.co.ke
David Namu setting up the iconic portrait of the late President Daniel Moi at Kabarak. Namu was one of the late president’s favourites from the battery of journalists covering his events. [Photo/ SULEIMAN MBATIAH]

The photo that best defines Moi has been picked as the official portrait for the period of his mourning through his burial.

This photo has been framed and distributed to all Kenyan embassies abroad. Locally, it has been used to convey condolences as well as vehicle and clothing branding.

See: Kenyan Teacher Who Rose to Hold The Highest Office

Namu says that even the security detail knew that he was a good friend to the former president thus granting him unfettered access to the mysterious Moi.

David Namu signibusinesstoday.co.keng the visitors book against the backdrop of the iconic photo he took of the late President Daniel Moi at Kabarak. Namu was one of the late president’s favourites covering his events. www.
David Namu signing the visitors’ book against the backdrop of the iconic photo he took of the late President Daniel Moi at Kabarak. Namu was one of the late president’s favourites covering his events. [Photo/ SULEIMAN MBATIAH]

He adds that they also had a coded language with the president where during photo sessions, Moi would follow Namu’s guidance on the poses to take.

Read: Moi-Owned Media House Given Access to Kabarak Home, Others Denied

The code language was so well understood between them that they never struggled to take the photos.

Namu says Moi was humble, nice and strict among other characteristics.

Here’s more:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=279&v=nbS9a1XDYPs&feature=emb_logo

Read >> Kenyans Given National Holiday to Mourn the Late Mzee Moi

Written by
Hakeenah N. Njenga -

Kenya is my home and its development and growth my motivation. I have a pen and a story to tell about why #KenyaIsMagical. Do you have a tip? We can showcase Kenya together since there is no place like home. Reach me at [email protected]

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