A group of Kaya elders from Mijikenda community in the Coast have sensationally claimed that Mzee Jomo Kenyatta was not a member of Kikuyu community.
In tales based on their own origin, the elders claim that the founding father was born to Digo parents before he was banished for being unruly.
Nobody knew exactly when he was born. Kenyatta himself, during his trial in 1952 on allegations of managing the Mau Mau, told the judge: “I do not know when I was born, what date, what month, or what year — but I think I am over 50.”
Thirteen years later, in a letter to the Royal Mint, he said his 75th birthday would be in 1966, meaning he was born in 1891.
Led by Mzee Juma Mwachuphi, the elders claim that the first president had roots in the coast, arguing that it informs his multiple trips to the region.
“Niliambiwa (Jomo Kenyatta) alizaliwa Digo na Wadigo lakini baada ya kuzaliwa alionekana ni kisirani kwa hivyo akatupwa,” asema mzee Mwachuphi.
“Alipotupwa wakatokea watu wakamchukua wakaenda naye bara. Lakini mpaka sasa watoto visirani wanazaliwa japo hawatupwi tena lakini hao (Wadigo) wa kale walikuwa wakiwatupa,” anaeleza.
Despite their narrative, historical records however, indicate that Mzee Kenyatta was born to Muigai and Wambui, both from Kiambu in 1880s.
He was born Kamau wa Muigai before being baptised Johnson Kamau wa Ngengi. He went on to led the country for 15 years from 1963.
Mzee Jomo Kenyatta died coincidentally in the coast at State House while he was attending to state functions. He was buried in Parliament.