The Wonders of Kirinyaga

This is a collection of digital stories titled 'Safari series' featuring Kenya's 47 counties portrayed through the adventures of various narrators.

Paukwa Kids Stories

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The next morning, they wake up very early. Juma’s mother had written all possible activities on small pieces of paper, folded them, and put them in a bowl for Juma to pick one for their day’s activity.&nbsp;&nbsp; “Zip Lining,” Juma says, reading the piece of paper he unfolded. Nobody is sure they want to be high above the ground hanging on a rope, but they decide to take the risk and have fun. “Welcome to the River Sagana zipline,” says Nasieku the guide with exuberance. The guide continues to explain that River Sagana is a sought-after destination for water sports lovers.

Each school holiday, Juma and his family visit a different region of Kenya to discover the sights and sounds Kenya has. This year they are in Kirinyaga county.&nbsp;&nbsp; Juma and his family do not know much about Kirinyaga. All Juma knows is that it was named after Mount Kenya's highest peak.&nbsp;&nbsp; “That grass is a really beautiful shade of green,” Juma says, pointing outside his window.&nbsp; “I do not think that is grass, neither is it weeds,” his mother says.&nbsp; “I think it is a paddy field with rice growing,” Juma’s father says, slowing down the car to a stop.&nbsp;

Almost immediately, Juma saw the sign that says Mwea Pishori Rice Farm.&nbsp; “Let us take a photo at the sign,” Juma’s father suggests, unfastening his seat belt.&nbsp; There was a cool breeze and half the sky was sunny while the other half had dark grey clouds. The view was however still beautiful.&nbsp;&nbsp; Unfortunately, mosquitos were drawn to Juma like magnets to steel. Mosquitos love paddy fields with their stagnant water for breeding. Soon they were back in the car.&nbsp;

“This is River Sagana and you will notice people in kayaks go by, they are coming from one of the seven rivers around us,” Nasieku informs them.&nbsp; “Seven rivers!” exclaims Juma. “Yes, you cannot go five kilometres before coming across a river or stream,” Nasieku explains handing Juma's mother the key to the changing room for them to put on the zip-lining outfit. “What's that plaque?” Juma asks pointing at a wall hanging behind Nasieku.&nbsp; “Oh, that was a token of appreciation for hosting the Africa Qualifiers for Kayaking for the 2016 Olympics,” Nasieku says excitedly.&nbsp;

Compiled by Ann Thuo, Cheruto Rono, Natalie Sifuma Edited by Wambui Mathenge

Before long, with all the gear on, off the dock Juma and his parents go, what an exhilarating ride.&nbsp;&nbsp; Once done, they decided to walk around and admire the scenery, and as Nasieku had told them they came across a river, saw cows grazing and lots of people kayaking. “Are you here to see the bridge?” A boy asks Juma, he seems to also be on a family trip.&nbsp; “What bridge?” Juma asks.&nbsp; “The Bridge of God, it's a rock formation that connects this side of the river to the other side,” the boy says.&nbsp;&nbsp; “Wow, my name is Juma,” he introduces himself.&nbsp; “I am Mus, short for Musa,” The boy says.

As they are talking about the bridge, their parents join them.&nbsp; “Hi guys we need to go, looks like it’s about to rain,” Musa’s mother says.&nbsp; “What about the Bridge of God?” Musa asks.&nbsp; “I guess we will have to come another day,” she says.&nbsp; Just then a tiny drop of rain falls on Juma's forehead. It looks like a tiny drop seems to have fallen on everyone as they hurry to find shelter from the rain.&nbsp;

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