Veterans recall battlefield exploits
Njabini, the hometown of the late liberation warrior Mukami Kimathi, is the place to be for history buffs, particularly those who are interested in the history of the nation’s struggle for freedom.
The area is teeming with heroes, whose accounts of events that took place in the Aberdare woodland nearly nine decades ago keep everyone fascinated.
Brigadier Ann Njoki, 89, has clear memories of how they outwitted their more advanced enemy.
She occasionally becomes upset when telling the narrative. She belonged to the group of ladies who owned and knew how to use rifles.
She was one of the tough female combatants from the Mt. Kenya region, despite her innocent demeanor, who had little regard for the colonizers.
When asked if she remembers the paramilitary exercise and war zone techniques, the fair-skinned warrior stiffens and continues by demonstrating how she used her rifle, frequently with lethal results.
Veterans recall battlefield exploits
Even while she may be losing some of her vitality as she gets older, she still clearly demonstrates the qualities of the tenacious field warrior she once was.
The colonial police once ridiculed Ms. Njoki after they had her imprisoned, saying, “You are too beautiful to engage in this kind of warfare.”
The freedom fighter, who was furious at the officer for making fun of her, leapt at him but was stopped by other prisoners.
“The independence struggle had nothing to do with my appearance… I was offended… and desired to enlighten him. She says with regret, “I wish I had my rifle.
She was one of many honored by the former administration of President Uhuru Kenyatta on Mashujaa Day.
When we caught up with her, Ms Njoki was among the freedom fighters who were mourning the death of Mukami Kimathi.
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