Hundreds of families have been left homeless after local authorities demolished houses built on riparian land in Nairobi’s slum areas in April, sparking cries of foul play. Among those affected was Gladys Wanjiku Maina, who expressed her distress after her home was destroyed in the recent Mathare demolitions.
The 81-year-old grandmother lost her residence of over 50 years, leaving her without a home. The government stated that the demolitions were necessary to save lives, especially during heavy rains, as these areas are prone to flooding.
Originally from Mathioya in Murang’a County, Gladys Wanjiku Maina and her late husband moved to Mathare in 1970 due to land disputes. “We moved from Murang’a because of land disputes. My father was detained by the colonial masters during the struggle for independence.
My elder brothers were Mau Mau fighters, and I remember taking food to them in Kiamuturi in Nyandarua,” Wanjiku recounted with pain.
The aftermath of the Mathare demolitions has been devastating for Wanjiku. Losing her home and belongings has been a heavy blow, and she is now under the care of her firstborn daughter, who was born in 1963.
“They destroyed everything—my bed and four cooking pots. I’m only left with one pot. I ask the authorities to come and make peace with me,” Wanjiku said, urging the government to relocate her.
Wanjiku’s most memorable moment was being honored as a national heroine by the former government during the Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kirinyaga in 2021. Three years later, she now faces harsh conditions in the informal settlement, holding onto hope for a brighter future.
