Hundreds of traditional believers gathered at Mt Kenya on December 27 for their annual prayer session, a ritual they observe every year.
Traveling in vehicles adorned with sky-blue ribbons, the faithful made several stops around the mountain, offering prayers for the nation in light of what they described as a year of significant challenges.
Led by Samuel Kamitha, Director of the Gikuyu and Mumbi Cultural Museum, and Ruth Wanjiku Enkeseni, the group expressed deep concern over the rising cases of abductions, with over 29 people reported missing.
“This year has brought many shocking events for our country. We have come here to pray for Kenya and seek divine intervention,” Kamitha said.
He urged Kenyans to value and preserve their cultural heritage, reminding them of the belief that God resides in the mountain. “Our forefathers believed in the mountain as a sacred place. We are here to call upon God to help us overcome the political and social challenges we face,” Kamitha added, referencing the unprecedented protests witnessed earlier in the year.
Accompanied by fellow believers, Kamitha highlighted the importance of collective and personal prayer. “This is how our forefathers prayed—thanking God for the year and seeking blessings for the future,” one participant said.
Others emphasized the need to revive cultural practices and traditional forms of worship. “We have forgotten the ways of our ancestors. We are here to pray for blessings and to encourage Kenyans to maintain their cultural identity,” another participant said.
The group conducted their prayers by driving anti-clockwise around Mt Kenya, stopping at seven designated points for prayer. Kamitha drew parallels with historical practices, noting that mountains have long been revered as sacred places of worship.
“From the Pharaohs of Egypt to the Biblical Moses and Prophet Isaiah, mountains have been central to prayer and spiritual connection. Mt Kenya holds the same significance for us,” he remarked.
As the group concluded their pilgrimage, they called for unity among Kenyans and a return to values rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions to navigate the country’s challenges.
