By Habil Onyango
A 71-year-old gentleman from Nakuru County is poised to make history by walking to Homa Bay County to participate in the Madaraka Day celebrations.
Steven Kariuki is determined to reach Homa Bay Town, the County headquarters, where the festivities are scheduled on Saturday, June 1, 2024.
In a video shared by Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan, who encountered the dedicated Kenyan in Kericho while en route to the Homa Bay on Sunday, Kariuki declined an offer for a lift to Homa Bay.
From Nakuru to Homa Bay is approximately 230 Kilometers and takes 4 hours 30 minutes via road.
According to Kariuki, he started his journey on May 21 and anticipates walking the entire distance to the “County of Endless Potential”.
President William Ruto, alongside other leaders, is expected to preside over the celebrations, which will take place at Raila Odinga Stadium.
The County Commissioner inquired, “Now that I have met you in Kericho and I am also headed to Homa Bay, can I offer you a lift so that we can travel together?”
Kariuki however, stated, “I have made a personal commitment to walk to Homa Bay; however, I appreciate the offer.”
Kariuki perceives this trek as a demonstration of patriotism that he hopes will inspire other Kenyans. He noted that the upcoming Madaraka Day celebrations will mark his thirteenth event attended through walking.
“I have participated in Madaraka Day celebrations in Kakamega, Kericho, Kisii, Kirinyaga, Embu, and Nairobi, where I have attended five times, among other locations,” he shared.
“My objective is to join fellow Kenyans during this significant occasion and celebrate together,” he emphasized.
Moreover, Kariuki urged his fellow citizens to foster peace, love, and harmony while rejecting tribal divisions.
“In Kenya, we constitute a singular entity, and our identity is that of Kenyans.
We must collectively express love for our country; we are all interconnected,” he stated.
The County Commissioner assured Kariuki that he would arrange accommodations in Homa Bay and offered to cover for his return journey to Nakuru County.
“You are welcome to Homa Bay.
Once you arrive, please call me.
I will provide you with a place to stay and ensure your fare back to Nakuru is covered,” Lilan promised.
Kariuki is a family man, and he is also a grandfather.
