Historian digs up untold story of heroine Mekatilili

@Yobramos4  

Did you know that Mnyazi wa Menza, the Giriama freedom fighter commonly known as Mekatilili wa Menza who led a rebellion against the British, had her first born son taken away by the colonialists, triggering her fight?

This is one of the many facts that were never recorded but which author Neema Warrakah has in her new book, 'Empress of Revolt', that will be launched on Saturday in Mombasa.

The book is written in English, German and Kiwahili. Spanish, French and Portuguese versions will be published later.

Warrakah traces the life and times of Mekatilili that have never been recorded.

The 268-page book  delves into the struggles of Mekatilili and some of the facts never recorded in history.

“It was like Africa was theirs for the taking. When you hear these stories told by authentic people who were close to the people who were there, you will feel the need to rewrite history,” Warrakah told the Star.

Contrary to many records from colonialists and other foreigners, Mekatilili never escaped from detention in Kisii in mysterious ways.

“There is speculation that she used black magic, others say she rode on a broomstick like a witch. But I learnt that she escaped from detention with the help of African collaborators,” Warrakah said.

She calls on Kenyan historians to dig deeper into the country's past by getting the facts.

“Do not depend on information that was written by foreigners only. This information may be biased; some things may have been left out and people might not get the full story. I would encourage all historians to find the real information. What you read is only the shallow part,” Warrakah said.

She said history shapes the future and Kenyans should be proud of their past.

“Please do not leave your history. Find out the details. If you know your history, you know your future,” the author said.

She said Kenya has a rich history that could be better exploited to boost tourism.

“I feel the rich history of Kenya has not been exploited enough in terms of tourism. There has been so much focus on the Maasai culture but there are other cultures and history that are left out.

“I was blown out of my mind when the Kaya elders told me about Mekatilili wa Menza and yet I am Kenyan. Imagine how a German national would feel if they were told about her,” she said.

Warrakah said even though the world is modernising, people should not forget their cultures.

“Everybody has the responsibility to stick to their culture because that is their identity. If we lose our identity, then who are we?” she said.