Dear Nanyuki

I would love to tell the stories in Nanyuki. Talk to the people in Nanyuki. Honour and give thanks to this place. The town I call home. I always thought I’d do it by interviewing people, photography and giving reviews of the different restaurants around. However, fear, procrastination, and being broke are proving a little bit hard.

I was born and raised in Nanyuki. Like almost every town there’s a slum called Majengo. I know Majengo and Sokoni areas like the back of my palms. I spent my childhood searching for the best mabuyu and ice in this neighbourhood. As my mum sold second-hand clothes Mtush, my friends and I played hide and seek. Hiding under the vibandas. I recall the first culvert and how hard it was for me to adapt to it. I had a hard time adjusting to it. My friend, Wangechi, had to show me that it wouldn’t collapse. I crawled on it, until a week later I got used to it.

Laikipia East County Library

In high school, I discovered the library. I remember it was always full and sometimes they would pitch a tent outside. As a not-so-popular girl, I’d admire the popular girls and boys who seemed to always have a group around them. I’d say I chose history because of a girl who was 2 classes ahead of me. I asked her what was the secret to passing history. I don’t remember what she said but I did select history and I did pass. I was also the history class rep. To be honest I didn’t study much as I was often distracted by the noise and the cold. Today, the library is almost empty. Only a few adults are in, who all seem busy. What are we all typing guys? I thought it would be empty as high schoolers are away. Also, the guy seated next to me is typing fast and I can’t stop yawning!

Nanyuki Mtumba

As I mentioned I had a lovely time growing in this place. As my mum sold clothes, I have a wide connection a knowledge of this place. I know where to find what or know someone who knows someone. Good shoes are sold on Friday from 8 am. Saturday is mutumoro (new stock). Early morning will get you better clothes but at a higher price while late evenings will get you still better clothes but at a lower cost. If you need a helping hand, let me know. I’ll make your shopping experience one to remember.

Nanyuki Nightlife & Ranches

I’ve heard of the nightlife here. How your road trips end with a couple of beers at Moran or Downtown. I haven’t experienced it, taking a shot and having to go back home or wondering who knows your mum as you whine your waist is exhausting. I’m afraid of experiencing the nightlife because everyone knows everyone so if I embarrass myself…  The kind of fun I want to have also requires that I walk around with a loaded pocket. Hey, unemployment? You also know Nanyuki as home for the rich. Guys, we don’t all have ranches. Some of us are normal people. Growing up, I always wondered why people equated visiting and living in Nanyuki with wealth. I struggled to feel like this was home because how do I feel at home when I look nothing like my home? I’d also love to let you know I’ve never been to a ranch, I don’t know how to ride a horse, I don’t have a British boyfriend.

The malls of Nanyuki

Growing up there was a two-chain store, Gracels,  both branches were in Nanyuki. Those were the first supermarkets I set foot in. I loved the arrangement and the wide variety of products was mesmerizing. It was equally intimidating as I would not borrow like we did with the local shops. I bought my first Bibo and quencher juice from them. The second biggest supermarket was Nakumatt. Now we have Cedar Mall and Quick Mart. I still have a bit of anxiety about shopping in supermarkets. What if I don’t have enough money, what if I break something I can’t afford? What if I fall and people laugh ?

River Nanyuki & River Likii

Growing up river Nanyuki had one solid bridge. The rest were makeshifts, a tree trunk connecting the two places. When the rains were too heavy everyone people was forced to use the long route home lest they drown. They have since added more bridges. Deeping my toes in the river never fails to ground me. The water is crispy cold and fresh. The trees are huge and old. When you visit Nanyuki please take a cold shower between 6 am and 8 am. The water and the cold will knock off any anxiety you have. Some of the river banks would make for a good chill spot, for picnics and reading spots. I haven’t gathered the courage to sit and read by myself next to the river but when I do, I will share my experience with you.

See you soon!

From Nanyuki, with love!