Mijikenda community leaders have planned a major Boxing Day gathering aimed at fostering unity as political realignments take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The event will be held in Kaloleni Sub-County at the homestead of the late Ronald Ngala, a revered leader credited with uniting the community during his lifetime. Ngala was the leader of the Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU) before its dissolution, after which he joined KANU. Following independence, he served as Minister for Cooperatives and Social Services.
Ngala died in a road accident on Christmas Day in 1972. Since his sudden death, unity within the community has remained elusive. The Mijikenda, who predominantly reside in Kilifi, Kwale and Mombasa counties, have largely been a stronghold of the ODM party since the 2005 referendum.
Dr William Kingi, a former Mombasa deputy governor and chairman of the Umwenga Wehu Welfare Association, said the event aims to forge a common purpose by bringing together Mijikenda from across the country.
For years, he noted, the community has been pulling in different directions, making unity long overdue.
“We have consulted the family, and they have accepted for the event to be held there,” said Kingi, adding that the forum will also help resolve longstanding internal conflicts that have impeded unity.
“We are meeting as Mijikenda to discuss our internal and external affairs. We want to speak with one voice in championing our community interests. There are no political issues; the aim is unity,” he added.
Kingi said the association is seeking a formula to unite the community into a formidable force capable of addressing key challenges such as land issues, job opportunities and business development.
The event will be live-streamed to enable Mijikenda living and working abroad to follow the proceedings. Organisers expect more than 5,000 people to attend, with food assured in plenty.
A resident, Beatrice Mbodze Gambo said Mijikenda women, including freedom icon Mekatilili wa Menza, played a pivotal role in Kenya’s independence and development.
“To date, Mijikenda women continue to contribute significantly to development and socio-economic transformation in the country,” she said as she urged women to turn out in large numbers.
Ms Gambo also encouraged both men and women to wear traditional attire to showcase the community’s rich cultural heritage.
Adnan Juma, a member of the association, called on the youth to attend the event and learn about their culture from elders.
“For a long time, the youth have been left behind. Yet, when elders are no longer around, we will take over their roles as Kaya elders. We cannot lead effectively if we do not understand our traditions,” said Juma.
On his part, Mr Kadenge Ngala, a son of the late independence-era minister, welcomed all nine Mijikenda sub-tribes to their home for the event, noting that the community has long yearned for unity.
By Sadik Hassan
