A section of Mijikenda youths in Kilifi County have called out political leaders for engaging in public disputes following the recently concluded Chenda Chenda Festival.

The youth leaders and Kaya elders are urging the leaders to focus on unity and collective progress rather than political bickering.

Speaking to the media, Kayafungo youth leader Nguma Charo expressed disappointment over the escalating tensions between local politicians. He emphasized that the festival had been a success and that all leaders had agreed to work together during the event.

“The Chenda Chenda Festival was a great achievement for the Mijikenda community. We agreed on key issues that would propel us forward as a people. Now, we need to sit down and chart a roadmap on how to implement those agreements. We do not want to lose the progress we have made,” Charo said.

Charo’s comments came after a meeting with Kaya elders at Kayafungo, where the youths discussed ways to build on the festival’s momentum. He urged political leaders to heed the call from the elders to unite the community and maintain a unified front.

Call for unity and dialogue

Mijikenda Kaya elders, represented by their Secretary General Tsuma Nzai, echoed the youth leader’s sentiments. Nzai announced that a team is being formed to coordinate Kaya activities, which will include representatives from elders, youth, and women to ensure that diverse community voices are heard.

Also Read: Pwani University staff join nationwide strike over unimplemented CBA

“This team will be responsible for coordinating the activities of the Kaya and ensuring smooth operations. The goal is to foster unity and preserve our cultural heritage while addressing the needs of all members of the Mijikenda community,” Nzai explained.

He also urged the political class to make regular visits to the Kaya for guidance and advice, emphasizing that the Kaya elders are the custodians of the community’s culture and traditions.

Concerns over political infighting

Samir Nyundo, another youth from the Mijikenda community, expressed concern over the ongoing public disagreements between political leaders, particularly in the media. He criticized the practice of leaders using radio and television platforms to attack each other, stating that it is harmful to the community.

“As youths, we are deeply troubled by the way our leaders have resorted to attacking each other on radio and television. This divisive behaviour began immediately after the Chenda Chenda Festival. If there are issues to address, let’s come together and resolve them privately, instead of airing our dirty laundry in public,” Nyundo said.

He also challenged the leaders to ensure the well-being of the Kaya elders, noting that they play a critical role in preserving Mijikenda culture and should be supported, not exploited for political gain. “These elders are the custodians of our heritage. They should be empowered and respected, not used as tools during political campaigns. Political leaders should treat this community as home, not just a place to visit when they need blessings for elections,” Nyundo remarked.

Festival’s cultural impact

Reflecting on the significance of the Chenda Chenda Festival, elder Johnson Charo described it as an eye-opener for many people in the region. He noted that there has been increased interest in Mijikenda culture since the event, with more individuals seeking to learn about the community’s traditions and practices.

“The festival has sparked curiosity and a desire among many people to reconnect with our Mijikenda heritage. We have seen a growing number of people come forward to learn more about our culture, which is a positive outcome,” Charo said.

As tensions simmer between political leaders, the Mijikenda community’s youth and elders call for a renewed focus on unity and cooperation. They expressed optimism that the leaders will heed their advice and ensure that the strides made during the Chenda Chenda Festival are not overshadowed by political infighting.