Stephen Kariuki, a 71-year-old resident of Nakuru, captured national attention on Monday, October 20, 2025, after completing an 11-day trek to attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County. Kariuki, who began his journey on Thursday, October 9, arrived in Kitui on Sunday, October 19, just ahead of the national event.

A Tradition of Patriotism

Kariuki revealed that walking to national holiday celebrations across the country has become a personal tradition. He stated that his journey to Kitui marked the eleventh time he had undertaken such a pilgrimage to commemorate national heroes.

“I have walked for 11 days. I began the journey on October 9 and arrived here yesterday. I am 71 years old and I was born in 1963 when Kenya attained its independence,” Kariuki stated, reflecting on his motivation. He added, “I have come here to commemorate the brave Kenyans who fought on behalf of this country, and therefore, I love walking. In the past, I have walked to 14 Mashujaa Day events.”

His previous journeys have taken him to various counties, including Nairobi, Kakamega, and Kisii. During his recent trek to Kitui, Kariuki made a stopover in Matuu, Machakos County, where he spent a night.

Motivation Rooted in History

Kariuki explained that his motivation stems from a profound sense of patriotism and love for Kenya. Born in 1954, he was a young boy when Kenya gained independence in 1963, a period when he felt unable to directly participate in the struggle for freedom. His long walks are a symbolic way of honouring those who fought for the nation's liberation.

Evidence/Data Box

• Participant: Stephen Kariuki, 71 years old, from Nakuru.
• Event: Mashujaa Day celebrations, October 20, 2025.
• Journey Duration: 11 days.
• Start Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025.
• Arrival Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025.
• Counties Visited for Mashujaa Day (by foot): Nairobi, Kitui, Kakamega, Kisii, among others.
• Total Mashujaa Day events attended by foot: 14 (as stated by Kariuki).

Historical Context of Mashujaa Day

Mashujaa Day, celebrated annually on October 20, is a national holiday in Kenya that honours all heroes who contributed to the struggle for Kenya's independence or positively contributed to post-independence Kenya. Originally known as Kenyatta Day, it was renamed Mashujaa Day (Heroes' Day) in the 2010 Constitution of Kenya to recognise a broader spectrum of national heroes. The holiday is often marked by presidential addresses, cultural performances, and public gatherings in various counties, with the main national event rotating among different locations each year.

What to Watch

Kariuki's continued dedication to attending national events by foot raises questions about the physical and logistical support available for elderly citizens who undertake such strenuous journeys. His story may inspire others to reflect on personal expressions of patriotism and the significance of national holidays in fostering unity and remembrance.