The iron of a ghost within Mukurwe wa Nyagathanga shrine

The sacred shrine of Mukurwe wa Nyagathanga in Murang'a County. The shrine’s deterioration has been occasioned by apathy, lack of finances and poor management. Most of the income is raised through gate collections and donations. [Photo:WILLIS AWANDU/STANDARD]

A ghost swallowed up in moss confronts you as you step into the sacred Mukurwe wa Nyagathaga shrine for the Agikuyu in Gakuyu, Murang’a County.

It’s initially obscure and derelict, until one delves past the steely gates and beyond the main reception ground of the cradle of Kikuyu nation.