By Nuru Salim
Kaya elders from Kaya Mtswakara have called on leaders from other kayas of the Mijikenda community to put aside their differences and embrace unity in a collective effort to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Mijikenda people.
Led by Shaban Ndegwa, the elders made a passionate appeal during a preparatory meeting for the upcoming Chenda Chenda cultural celebration, urging kaya leaders from the nine Mijikenda sub-tribes to come together as brothers and custodians of tradition.
Ndegwa emphasized that internal divisions and lack of cooperation among kaya leaders have weakened the momentum toward cultural preservation and social cohesion.
“There are some among us who have distanced themselves, holding grudges and refusing to work with others. But we are not interested in isolation, we want inclusivity and collaboration with anyone willing to safeguard our heritage,” said Ndegwa.
Benson Kalimbo, Kaya Mtswakara Patron, urged the youth to reconnect with their roots by embracing traditional values, attending kaya forums, and engaging with elders to understand the depth of Mijikenda customs.
“Our youth need to know that the kaya is not just a sacred forest, it is a living archive of our people’s wisdom. If young people participate in council sessions and listen to elders, they will absorb the teachings that shape character and community,” Kalimbo said.
He expressed concern that detachment of youths from cultural practices has left many young people vulnerable to negative influences, including criminal gangs that are disrupting peace across the coastal counties.
Chenda Chenda festival, slated for September 9, offers a rare opportunity to bring together all nine Mijikenda tribes—Giriama, Digo, Duruma, Rabai, Kambe, Chonyi, Jibana, Kauma, and Ribe—in a shared celebration of identity, unity, and resilience.
The festival is expected to attract thousands of participants from across the coastal region, offering a platform not only for cultural expression but also for intergenerational learning and dialogue.
Also present at the meeting was Tsuma Nzai, the regional coordinator of Kayas in the coastal region, who was on-site to assess the progress of Kaya Mtswakara as preparations for Chenda Chenda intensified. Nzai underscored the importance of each kaya playing its part in the run-up to the event, adding that Kaya Mtswakara’s leadership and mobilization efforts were exemplary and could serve as a model for others.
As preparations for Chenda Chenda continue, community leaders hope the celebration will mark a new beginning in the quest to safeguard traditions and inspire younger generations to carry the cultural torch forward.
