MauMau veterans now want the government to create a platform for their annual reunion, urging the state to facilitate their transport and accommodation costs to a destination of their choice.
Speaking to journalists in Naivasha on Wednesday, their patron, Dedan Waceke, a grandson of the former MauMau fighter Dedan Kimathi, said that it was important for them to meet and remind themselves of their struggle.
“MauMau veterans are normally depressed and in case they meet, they will share experiences and talk to each other. It is also important since they will be able to take note of the welfare of each other, including the health and whereabouts of each other,” he added.
His views were echoed by the MauMau Association Chairman Michael Kingori, who cited that they wanted to start documenting the events of the struggle for freedom through the eyes of the veterans.
“We want the firsthand experience and we are encouraging them to tell their story as it was. From a firsthand perspective, we will be able to understand their struggle better and we will pass it on to the other generations,” added Kingori.
He also called on the government to provide the veterans with the basic necessities including shelter, food and clothing.
“It is a shame that many of this warriors live in shantis or in rented houses yet they struggled to free this nation. The freedom we are enjoying is as a result of their hard work,” he added.