A beautiful silence fills days of man who guards the dead

Nderitu Maina, 52, who is in-charge of the Langata Cemetery in Nairobi. [Beldeen Waliaula, Standard]

Nderitu Maina is not necessarily quiet by nature, but while at work, he must remain silent, for he has no one to talk to. Indeed, his days are spent surrounded by the dead, who fill the deathly silence.

Lately though, Maina has been mourning diminishing customers as clients shift to competitors. In addition, Lang’ata cemetery, where he works is almost full. “The silence in this place is just beautiful. I also love the way those who see themselves as mighty, humble themselves when they come to buy space for their loved ones. Since they are grieving they come with respect,’’ he says.