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Chokora: A Kenyan Scavenger
John Patrick and Martin Joseph are two teens born in the dusty, poor neighbourhood of Huruma in Nairobi. Raised by single unemployed mothers, they turn to scavenging for valuables in the city’s middle-class neighbourhoods to survive the harsh life of Huruma. City residents have labeled them Chokora, a derogatory term to describe human scavengers. And they use this effectively. For them, the Chokora façade is a camouflage as the two youths go about their exploits, including stealing from unsuspecting residents. As fate would have it, the duo ends up in a police cell to face the full reality of their escapades. Chokora! A Kenyan Scavenger is a poetic narration of the reasons most of the urban youth turn to crime. There is a lot of attention paid to the protection of the girl-child in Kenya, while neglecting the boy child. John and Martin have never known their biological fathers and are forced to adopt their mothers’ names instead. From the perspective of many, unconventional naming is an embarrassment amidst the cruel surroundings.
Voices
n the small town of Soghor in Nyanza, Kenya, there exists a myth dating back to colonial times. It relates to people, termed kachinja, who were rumoured to prowl the area, arresting passers-by and tapping their blood. Supposedly, Songhor survived this way throughout the colonial period and into Kenya’s independence.
Following emancipation, the White Highlands reverted to the indigenous population, and a settlement for the Luo, Kalenjin and Kisii communities. Folklore has it that people routinely dashed for the bushes whenever they saw a red car approaching. Its white owner is said to have used the car to transport captured Africans for slaughter. The man lived near the Songhor Museum Site that was founded by two white men in 1932, and gazetted in 1981. Two African families in nearby Tamu and Muhoroni are rumoured to have been complicit, acting as ‘catchers’ of Africans.
At the white man’s homestead, the main house had a bunker-like hole with a small door, and a grilled opening. Keen observations lead to curious revelations.
This is a fictionalized account based on a long-held myth. It is meant for enjoyment.
Proverbs of the Abagusii of Kenya
Like most cultural groups, the oral tradition of Abagusii People of Kenya is expressed in, among others, proverbs. These capture lessons and meaning, modulated by time and context as they are passed down generations. Like riddles and metaphors, proverbs express the wisdom of a culture and find apt applications in many situations. Christopher Okemwa's work documents some of the proverbs of Abagusii, their meaning, context in which they are used and application thereof. In this book proverbs are documented in the original form accompanied by English translations in addition to lessons they offer. Embedded in this collection are cultural aspects such beliefs and norms which touch on many aspects of Abagusii society. These aspects include relationships among people, communal life, gender matters, economic issues and many more.
Here is what others say
"Through careful transcription and translation of proverbs of Abagusii people of Kenya, Okemwa shares knowledge and cultural diversity as a wide range of themes and motifs recur hence multiplying meanings and implications. The proverbs explore both socio-political and socio-economic issues, in addition to fulfilling an aesthetic function." - Gladys Nyaiburi Ogaro, Mount. Kenya University
"The uniqueness of this work lies in its use of Ekegusii language to impart culture of Abagusii on the reader through the imagery in proverbs. The advantage of 'hearing' Ekegusii first hand, its literal and deep meaning provided, makes it ideal for students and teachers of language and culture in learning institutions. The work also preserves, for posterity, wisdom that may become extinct with the passage of time." - Margaret Kemunto Obaga, Catholic University, Nairobi, Kenya
"Christopher Okemwa's Proverbs of Abagusii of Kenya: Meaning & Application captures and radiates, with delight, the wisdom and beauty in Abagusii proverbs. For Ekegusii speakers, the proverbs nudge one to take a deep look at oneself and see how entertaining they can be. For non-speakers of the language the translation provided gives the poems versatility in content and pervasive reach, thus making them universal pieces of erudition that challenge and encourage. The proverb, 'Naigure ndumo boina ko mosiori ntamanya' (I have heard noise coming from grave diggers, but I am not sure who will be first to be interred), for instance, warns everybody against the barbarism of intransigence and physical confrontations, a universal piece of wisdom. Reading this invaluable book is a sure-fire route to intellectual nourishment. Okemwa has documented answers to our deep-seated questions on our socio- cultural, socio-economic and socio-political queries as captured by Abagusii proverbs. The wisdom therein helps one pry into one's own inadequacies and learn to challenge adversity." - Bwocha Nyagemi Bwocha, St. Augustine University, Tanzania
Cheat Sheet for Running a Start-Up in...
This is an amazing read for young innovators. The journey of entrepreneurship is like a labyrinth, one that calls for determination
and focus to achieve the desired goal. Indeed it reinforces the adage that ‘footprints on the sand of time are never made while sitting down’.
Aaron, you have used technology to transform and save lives through the Damu Sasa app, making blood available to the thousands in need.
~ Dr. Ademola Olajide,
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Innovators have a passion for solving problems that afflict society and,
in the process, they go through and learn a lot. Aaron’s Ogunde’s Cheat Sheet for Running a Startup in Africa is an account of a resilient
innovative endeavour whose trajectory has been punctuated by hits and misses, and highs and lows. During the journey, there has been
an accumulation of lessons worth sharing with curious individuals, nascent entrepreneurs, innovators, start-up entrepreneurs, micro and
small enterprises founders as well as academics and policy makers.
The book is a must-read for all who have been accorded an opportunity to live. ~ Prof. Vincent Machuki, Associate Professor, Faculty of Business
and Management Sciences, University of Nairobi.
Aaron Ogunde is a brilliant entrepreneur and an inspiring leader whose experiences and insights we can all learn from. This overview
of his journey, and the challenges he has faced along the way, is a must-read for social entrepreneurs and business leaders. It highlights
contextually and culturally relevant lessons for managers of early stage organizations operating in difficult and often bureaucratic environments, while also providing guidance and motivation for those looking to make a difference in society. I am forever learning from Aaron’s journey and highly recommend this book! ~ Sahar Jamal, MBA, BCom., BA; Founder & CEO, Maziwa Breastfeedin
Three Things You Must Desire in Life
In Three Things you Must Desire Bishop Augustine Rugutt provides some guiding principles to enable humankind lead fruitful spiritual lives. Much as she is driven by her infinite range of desires, Bishop Rugutt argues that what is vital is what God desires of humankind. As such, it is humankind’s duty to understand what God desires of her and, to do so, she must develop a strong spiritual relationship with the Lord. Being right with God is essential, the author avers, for it offers the basis for all other relations to be right with the rest of society.
Bishop Rugutt identifies three important desires which he suggests will enhance the relationship with God and enrich the lives on this earth, namely: the Desire to Live in Righteousness, the Desire to have a Godly Family and the Desire to Prosper in God’s Way.
The Desire to Live in Righteousness is a consequence of humankind’s need for spiritual power to do what is virtuous in society. To be righteous requires seeking God continuously even in the face of challenges and distractions.
Desire to have a Godly Family recognizes that a family with a strong spiritual foundation is essential for humankind to thrive spiritually. It is thus important that families live in righteousness and godliness, starting this early in the lives of children.
The author’s view of prosperity is broad and he suggests that pursuit for prosperity should be based on addressing the needs of society and be spiritual in itself, and hence the Desire to Prosper in God’s Way.
What others say
“This is a book worth reading and keeping in one’s library because it is written to help one to grow in godliness.” - Prof. Eric Masinde Aseka, Professor of Leadership and Governance and Senior Pastor.
“The author makes a persuasive argument that, as much as our desires may be infinite, what really matters is what God desires of us. This is a timely message, especially coming at a time of global turmoil and many personal challenges.” – Matunda Nyanchama, Book Publisher
About the Author
Bishop Augustine Rugutt, a Pastor by calling, is a trained agricultural engineer, a profession which he practised for many years. He served the government of Kenya for thirteen years until 2006 when he left to dedicate his time to the ministry of serving God.
He is the husband of Nancy Rugutt and father of Faith Chelangat, Mercy Cherotich, Caren Cherono, Nehemiah Rugutt, Salome Chemngetich and Joshua Kiprono. Bishop Rugutt is a spiritual father to many.
Based in Narok Town, Kenya, he serves
KRAFT
Through a meeting with Wendy, they form a bond and together, they embark on life's journey. Life turns wonderful, until disasters knock at the door, one after the other…
Meanwhile, detective Tom Mbuke is running out of time to solve a series of bizarre happenings that befall the Teluves. He blames himself for a prank that caused so much pain as a 10-year-old and vowed to leave no stone unturned to find out what really happened. But nothing could prepare him to handle the truth that emerges.
Kraft is a story about deceit, love, sex, power, betrayal, crime, money and anything in between, set in colonial Kenya and spanning two generations to present day Kenya and around several continents…
Eco Africa: An Anthology of Poems
Eco Africa: An Anthology of Poems is a magnificent collection of poems from across the African continent (Eastern, Western, Central, and Southern Africa) with various contributions from some African poets in Diaspora. There are poems on nature such as its beauty and clean air, on potential consequences of climate change, notably global warming, and the potential devastating effects of drought, floods and hunger. There is uncertainty, and hence fear and hope. The verses shed streaks of light on the contemporary concerns about pollution, its impacts on humanity and the earth’s flora and fauna. However, even with the gloom and doom, the artists offer pointers to remedies! Will humanity hearken?
Loaded with vivid descriptions, suspense, and free expression, the works herein make it hard for the reader to place the book down even after reading the last word!
What Others Say
“The poems have an appealing and timely message on matters of the environment.” – Dr. Chris Okemwa, Kisii University
Shifting Sands
Shifting Sands is a gripping narration by Kemunto aka Kemu" to her three girlfriends, all of different cultural heritage. Kemu aspires to be a writer but life with its vicissitudes doesn't make her dream an easy one. We follow the four young girls as they mature in this adventure, growing up and facing the world. Their encounters, surprises and cultural intricacies make for good reading.
Their intertwined lives from a young age, and their different cultural backgrounds and upbringing offer interesting insights. Kemu and Myra are Kenyan Africans while Shilpa is third-generation Kenyan-Indian and Latifah is third-generation Kenyan-Arab. The latter two face questions of nationality all the time, despite that their families have been in the country for generations.
Shifting Sands is an intriguing tale of enduring encounters of living a moral and ethical life, placing its own challenges on friendships cemented from early childhood and school. How will the four ladies' friendship survive?
Shifting Sand's various strands of narratives are compelling and herald the coming of age of a gifted and talented writer who brings women and children experiences hauntingly to life. In this tale we get contrasting insights of issues that impact women, children and relationships. Tradition and cultural practices of old are challenged in the face of modernity while age-old wisdom, like that from Kemu's grandmother (Magokoro) and father, appear immutable.
What Others Say
"Mombasa, a tapestry city where east meets west and north meets south, is the metonymy that gives Moraa Gitaa the opportunity to indict archaic cultural beliefs, government authorities, extremism, the suppression of women, and a whole slew of questionable practices in modern Kenya. Kemunto's voice is that of the archetypal, dignified and upright woman everywhere in the developing world, not just that of the African woman. Quite well said." - Charles Phebih-Agyekum, author and book editor.
"Shifting Sands is a powerful, compelling and gripping narrative employing a mature mastery of the English language that leaves the reader yearning for more." - Excerpt from judges' comments, 2008 National Book Development Council of Kenya Literary Awards.
"Moraa Gitaa's Shifting Sands will add value to the national discourse on gender discrimination, inter-generational tensions, socioeconomic marginalization, HIV and AIDS, the injustices suffered by the poor in this country, corruption, transnational and global connections and their impact on the lives of Kenyans and other nationals residing in the country." - Comparative Literature Lecturer at a Kenyan university.
Crucible for Silver and Furnace for Gold
Giorgio thought that a sojourn to Kenya's coast was the perfect way to kick back and relax, luxuriate in the sun, scuba-dive, take big-game fishing trips or a dhow cruise, but it turns out to be a break filled with mixed fortunes. On the other hand, Lavina's sabbatical for soul-searching in Malindi turns out to be a Herculean task of grappling with a moral dilemma of epic proportions. When their paths cross and their lives become intertwined, their emotionally charged struggle to connect with each other is challenging and turbulent.
This story deals with various socioeconomic issues ranging from the institution of marriage and multi-racial relationships, to amazing Kenyan art & culture, to historical land injustices brought about by the pre-nineteenth century, 99 year old colonial crown land leases, absentee landlords, and the long overdue land reform agenda on land tenures, the cause of many a conflict in the country.
The first scene opens on the Kenyan coast with captivating miles of pristine sandy white beaches, lapped by clear turquoise waters, providing the backdrop for your typical tropical beach holiday, but gets marred with a near-tragedy.
Here is a compelling and descriptive narrative that will pull at your heartstrings, but one that offers a message of hope to a moral dilemma that has bedeviled the world.
Here is what others say about this work:
From an an author clearly proud of her heritage and the beauty of her country comes a romantic tale set in Kenya. Featuring a jaw-achingly handsome Italian man and a beautiful, talented, but troubled local girl, the romance unfolds in a light teasing manner until the twist in the tale turns out to be a moral dilemma that would test the strength of any relationship. - Muthoni Garland - Kenyan writer nominated and short-listed for Caine Prize 2006, winner of Absinthe Literary Review 2003, and Founder of Story Moja, a new publishing initiative in Kenya
Moraa Gitaa writes with a crisp, clean style that will engage the reader from the first paragraph forward. A ground-breaking novel from a modern 'This Generation' African woman. A fine example of expressive writing that women around the world will find both inspiring and insightful. You'll turn page after page. - Rod Amis, Publisher & Editor G21 The World's Magazine
In delicious detail and with revolutionary zeal, Moraa tells a story of fierce passion, challenging tradition and breaking taboo. She weaves a surprising symphony. Fabulous! - John Mwazemba, Publishing Manager, Macmillan (Kenya) Publishers
Vigorous, with a surprise at every turn. This one will capture you alive! - Bruce L. Cook, Author-me.com
Moraa’s keen hand represents her generation’s challenges, hopes and dreams. She presents the reader with an intriguing, lyrical tale where lies a complex and breathtaking story of modern Kenya as shaped by politics, global interconnectedness, and the stirrings of hearts motivated by private sorrows, personal commitments, and high ideals. - Dr. Wambui Githiora-Updike, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Author of Wanjira.
A remarkable tale of love that keeps you turning the pages deep into the night. As you close the last page, you are, without choice, left with the burning question: How do I live my life? - Onduko bw'Atebe, Kenyan Author, his debut novel The Verdict of Death won first prize in the inaugural Wahome Mutahi Literary Prize (Kenya) 2006
Unchartered Mind
Unchartered Mind: Poems about Life and Living is Imali J. Abala’s most impressive poetry collection to date. The poems are lyrical, imagistic, and thought-provoking. Exploring the complexity of life and living, the poems take the reader on a journey of self-discovery as they probe the very essence of our humanity and existence, a real delight to read.
What Readers Say
"Imali J. Abala shows a unique and creative brilliance in this volume of poetry collection titled Unchartered Mind: Poems about Life and Living. Quite boldly, Abala challenges her readers to acknowledge the literary sanctity of double engenders in such comparisons as life and liberty, hope and faith, joy and death. Without shame, she brazenly asserts that, perhaps, America’s freedom isn’t what it is cracked up to be.
Abala, a life-long learner, possesses a global world view that is seasoned by her academic experience as a veteran professor of English. It is her gift of words, her reflective culture and her passion for life that serve as the impetus for “verse” as discovered in Unchartered Mind: Poems about Life and Living." - Dr. Brooksie Harrington, Professor of English at Fayetteville State University.
