The widow of the late freedom fighter Dedan Kimathi is set to join Nyandarua county government as an advisor. Mrs Mukami Kimathi will be joined by Mau Mau War Veterans Association chairman Mzee Elijah Nga’ng’a Kinyua alias “General” Bahati in her tasks.
Nyandarua County Governor Francis Kimemia said independence liberators have a wealth of experience in uniting people similar to the way they rallied the fighters behind a common course to free the country from colonialism. He said they also have experience in counseling the youth on vital lessons in life that the devolved unit should tap to add value to the youth.
“We will work with her and other Mau Mau freedom fighters as advisors,” Kimemia said at Ol Kalou stadium yesterday during celebrations to mark this year’s Madaraka Day.
He disclosed that his government had set aside Kh60 million to cater for the good health of freedom fighters. “We will pay for their NHIF contributions to ensure they access health services with ease,” Mr Kimemia said.
He noted that some of the liberators remained poor and there is need to ensure their welfare is catered for. The county boss further disclosed that title deeds for colonial villages in the county had been processed and were awaiting issuance to the beneficiaries.
Mr Kimemia said his administration had set aside 25 acres of land at Kinyahwe are where a Mau Mau museum will be constructed to preserve the history of the heroes and called for unity among the elected leaders in the region to ensure pledges made during the electioneering period were fulfilled and meet expectations of electorate.
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Disunity among the leaders was evident during the celebrations as only three MCAs attended the national function, two nominated and one elected. However, local MPs sent their apologies through the Women Representative Ms Faith Gitau while the County Assembly Speaker Wahome Ndegwa was said to be in a neighbouring country.
“Let us emulate President Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga’s handshake,” Mr Kimemia said.
He hailed the handshake terming it a good gesture that local leaders should emulate to serve wananchi better. His unity call was echoed by the deputy governor Cecilia Mbuthia, Senator Mwangi Githiomi and Woman representative Faith Gitau who attended the celebrations.
