71-Year-Old Man Walks 11 Days to Attend Mashujaa Day in Kitui
A 71-year-old man from Nakuru, Stephen Kariuki, captured national attention after walking for 11 days to attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County.
Kariuki began his journey on October 9 and arrived on Sunday, October 19, a day before the national holiday. He said the trek was part of a personal tradition he started years ago to honour Kenya’s heroes by walking to national celebrations held across the country.
A Journey of Patriotism and Endurance
Speaking to journalists in Kitui, Kariuki explained that he walks to symbolize patriotism and appreciation for Kenya’s freedom fighters.
“I have walked for 11 days. I began the journey on October 9 and arrived here yesterday. I am 71 years old and was born in 1963 when Kenya attained independence,” he said.
He added that his motivation stems from his love for Kenya and the courage of those who fought for independence. “I come here to commemorate the brave Kenyans who fought for this country,” he noted.
Walking to Celebrate National Unity
Kariuki shared that he has walked to 14 Mashujaa Day events in different parts of the country, including Nairobi, Kitui, Kakamega, and Kisii. During his latest journey, he made stopovers in towns such as Matuu in Machakos County, where he spent a night before resuming his trek.
Clad in a red beret and jacket, the elderly patriot carried a Kenyan flag, a backpack, and a three-legged stool painted in the national colours.
After attending the celebrations, Kariuki plans to raise funds for his return trip using support from family and and friends.
Mashujaa Day Celebrations in Kitui
This year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations drew more than 20,000 people to Ithookwe Stadium. President William Ruto led the national ceremony, joined by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who was the guest of honour.
The event highlighted Kenya’s heroes and the country’s continued journey toward unity and development. Kariuki’s story stood out as a testament to the spirit of patriotism and resilience that Mashujaa Day seeks to celebrate.
