This week while away on business on the lovely isle of St. Thomas, I started reading the book Facing Mt. Kenya by Jomo Kenyatta. It is his account of his own Kikuyu (Gikuyu) tribe. I found it most interesting to learn the prominent role Mt. Kenya plays in the life of this tribe. Here are a couple excerpts I found real interesting:
At the same time Mogai made a big mountain which he called Kere-Nyaga (Mount Kenya), as his resting place when on inspection tour, and as a sign of his wonders. He then took the man Gikuyu to the top of the mountain of mystery, and showed him the beauty of the country that Mogai had given him. While still on top pf the mountain, the Mogai pointed out to the Gikuyu a spot full of fig trees (mikoyo), right in the centre of the country.
After Mogai had shown the Gikuyu the panorama of the wonderful land he had been given, he commanded him to descend and establish his homestead on the selected place which he named Mokorwe wa Gathanga. Before they parted, Mogai told Gikuyu that, whenever he was in need, he should make a sacrifice and raise his hands to Kere-Nyaga (the mountain of mystery), and the Lord of Nature will come to his assistance."
I find it really interesting to learn more and more about the wonderful country of Kenya and some of its tribal traditions and beliefs. I've been going to Kenya now for just over two years, and am just now beginning to understand more abouts its people and rich history.
As I look forward to climbing Mt. Kenya, it seems even more appropriate that this be the mountain I climb -- lots of history, lots of lore and lots of adventure...lots of Kenya.
