Stephen Kariuki, a 71-year-old man from Nakuru County, has trekked hundreds of kilometres from his home to Kitui to attend this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium.
Kariuki says he was a young boy when Kenya attained independence and therefore could not take part in the struggle for freedom.
For several years now, he has made it his tradition to walk to every Mashujaa Day venue across the country to honour the heroes who fought for Kenya’s independence.
Travelling alone, Kariuki began his journey from Nakuru 11 days ago and arrived in Kitui on the evening of October 19. He carried with him a backpack, a Kenyan flag, and a three-legged chair painted in the national colours.
He says the long walk is a personal symbol of patriotism and solidarity with those who lost their lives fighting for self-rule.
After the celebrations, Kariuki plans to raise funds from his grandchildren and friends to board a matatu back to Nakuru — a journey he describes as a fulfilling mission he holds dear to his heart.
