Kiima kimwe shrine: Remarkable story of survival over 200 years

On top of Kiima kimwe, 1.5 hours walk from Machakos town, stands a big Kiuumo tree, which served as Masaku’s shrine. Residents well know that it is still a shrine.

However, its significance is higher among the older generation.

The shrine has been there for over 200 years. Its name, Masaku, suggests that it was used by Chief Masaku as his shrine many years ago. According to Wikipedia, Masaku arrived in that area in 1816. He was the grandfather of Paul Ngei.

Mzee Jeremiah, in his 90s, who lives few meters from the shrine, confirmed that the shrine has been there for years.

However, were it not for rules regarding the preservation of it, the shrine could have been turned to nothing long ago. 

According to the book Kamba Customary Law, published in 1950, Mutie Isa was penalized because of burning the shrine accidently.

It is still against the Kamba customs, to cut down a tree around a shrine, or even to collect fire woods. Those who break the laws regarding shrines are fined.

Given the increasing number of churches around it and deforestation, it is noteworthy that the shrine still continues to be considered as Masaku’s shrine.