We have let down true heroes and must now change our ways

Today, Mashujaa Day, Kenyans remember the men and women who made the greatest sacrifices to put the country on a path of progress. These are the selfless souls who sacrificed individual comfort and personal privilege for the sake of the republic. Many paid the ultimate price protecting or agitating for the country’s dignity. They fought the yoke of colonialism where Kenyans could not enjoy freedom or access opportunities in their own country.

During the British rule, Kenyans were treated as third rate citizens. They were not to be heard or seen in certain places. Their movements were monitored closely and those caught in the wrong were punished heavily. Those who dared fight for freedom and opportunity for indigenous Kenyans were marked, maimed, tortured and sometimes killed in the most brutal manner. For decades, they slaved under the white man who carted away most of the resources generated locally. At some point in 1920, the British masters toyed with the idea of making Kenya a white man’s country and dominate Kenyans forever. However, gallant men and women fought for independence and we achieved it. Kenya will always be grateful for the sacrifices freedom fighters made to gain self-rule.