Gachogu: The Matatu Guy
I was not surprised when Mr. Gachogu left teaching and bought a matatu, which he drove himself. He fitted so well with the touts (Makanga) and fellow drivers,…
Ng’atho: Our Fashion Designer
He was a tailor who ran his business on the veranda outside the Gachogu shop. He was my family “designer”. My parents believed in his workmanship, we did…
My Mukurino Length Dresses
All my dresses including school uniform were a length that almost touched my ankles. Ng’atho and my mother were in total agreement that I was a growing child…
Multi Colored Shirts
For my brothers, there was a time when their style was turned upside down without warning or consultation. All five of them were close in age and size.…
First Bata Shop in OlKalou
After spending several years in the market, braving the hot sun, dust, wind gusts and mud that made the market look like a cow shed (gicheegu), Jirada opened…
Mother on Visiting Day
Picture for a moment my mother from the Settlement Scheme of OlKalou visiting me in school some 180 kilometers away. Her journey will have started early in the…
I am a Bridesmaid: Say What?
About a year before I reported to high school, while still a student at Munyeki, my older sister decided to get married. She was having a real church…
My Very Own Bedroom
When I entered the house I almost passed out. First thing I noticed was the fireplace. I had always loved chimneys but I had never entered a house…
Wrinkled Clothes and Closet
After bathing, I put on the same clothes I had on before and the Help quickly pointed that out. “You do not put back on dirty clothes after…