By Vivian Njagi, DevReporter, Nairobi Count
Key Highlights
- Protests over poor service delivery, clashes with police, and the tragic loss of young lives have left the Mwiki community struggling with trauma that is difficult to heal.
- Reports of inhumane conduct and brutal killings languish in police files without resolution.
- There is an urgent need for the government to allocate resources to support mental health and create a safer environment for residents in Mwiki.
In Mwiki, Kasarani, the scars of violence run deep. Protests over poor service delivery, clashes with police, and the tragic loss of young lives have left the community struggling with trauma that that will be difficult to heal.
While the world sees images of burning tyres and chaotic streets during protests that often turn violent, the residents of Mwiki bear the silent scars of this violence.
The Wounds Beneath the Smoke
Behind nearly every burning tyre and smoke in Mwiki lies a name, a family, and a wound that the camera cannot capture.
Abigael Wina Wanjiku lost her life in what human rights defenders have described as a brutal case of femicide.
Her mother returned home from work to find her daughter dead and mutilated, apparently a victim of gang rape by suspects whose identities remain unknown.
Joseph Steven met his untimely demise on 20 June 2025, when protesters took to the streets to demand justice for Abigael.
According to eye-witnesses, a police officer opened fire on the 19-year-old, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at Kenyatta National Hospital. These horrifying events have left fear etched in the hearts of the residents.
The Echo of Neglect
In Mwiki, the silence is not just emotional; it is systemic.
Reports of inhumane conduct and brutal killings remain in police files without resolution. Medical clinics where survivors are expected to seek services operate without enough doctors.
Mary Immaculate, a designated mental health facility in Kasarani, feels unfamiliar to Mr. John, known as ‘Mwangi wa boda’. He reflects the sentiments of residents who have never seen the facility despite its prominent online presence.
Emmy Akinyi, a customer service representative at Kasarani Health Centre, welcomed this DevReporter, eager to provide professional help. However, frequent doctors’ strikes hinder their ability to fulfil their duties, according to her.
Psychiatric services at the facility are available only by appointment due to the limited number of staff.
There is an urgent need for the government to allocate resources to support mental health and create a safer environment in Mwiki.
A Fundamental Pillar
Security is a fundamental pillar of Vision 2030, explicitly outlined as a cornerstone of a high quality of life.
The health sector must prioritise the mental wellbeing of affected communities and survivors of violence.
Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasises peace, justice, and strong institutions, aims to “significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.”
The justice system must be accountable and prompt in addressing the ongoing violence and restoring peace and safety in our cities.
Turning Fear into Resolve
Amidst the strife, a spirit of determination is emerging in Mwiki. Though leaders and institutions have largely remained silent, there is a growing awareness among individuals. Mothers accompany their daughters home, and fathers and brothers strive to return before dark.
The residents of Mwiki need leaders at both the national and community levels, who will advocate for them and help distinguish the chaff from the wheat.
As a call for assistance, the government should support residents by enhancing police patrols, improving street lighting, and ensuring functional institutions.
Without these measures, the goals targeted by Vision 2030 and the frameworks for peace, mental health wellness, and a high quality of life, will remain out of reach for this community.
Mwiki’s story is not just one of wounds but also of resilience; a community learning that safety is not simply given but must be forged.
