A Nairobi play focused on Tom Mboya’s life draws parallels between present-day Kenya’s challenges and its historical struggles for independence. As protests against President Ruto’s administration unfold, the performance encourages audience participation, reflecting current frustrations with government corruption and negligence. It showcases a legacy of activism, urging today’s youth to take action for change, inspired by past figures like Mboya who fought for freedom and justice.
During a recent performance in Nairobi, an audience of over 600 witnessed a poignant dramatization of Kenya’s fight for independence, centered on the life of Tom Mboya, a prominent statesman and independence activist. The play, part of the Too Early for Birds series, depicts Mboya’s struggles and contributions, including his stance against government corruption and his tragic assassination at 38. Engaging the audience through interactive elements, the play also spotlighted contemporary issues by resounding chants like ‘Ruto must go,’ reflecting the current political turmoil in Kenya.
The recent protests, sparked by proposed tax hikes on June 18, have escalated following violent crackdowns, leading to numerous deaths and enforced disappearances; 82 cases were reported between June and December. These protests represent the deepest crisis of President William Ruto’s administration, which attempted to quell dissent by withdrawing the tax bill and reshuffling his cabinet, though discontent persists among citizens.
Director Mugambi Nthiga noted that the societal issues depicted in Mboya’s life continue to resonate today, emphasizing the persistence of systemic oppression. He underlined the importance of youth activism in forging a better future, drawing parallels between historical and present-day struggles against power abuses. The play chronicles Mboya’s evolution from a colonial childhood to a formidable advocate for Kenya’s independence.
The performances invite audiences to reflect on the historical context of contemporary issues, paralleling Mboya’s legacy with ongoing movements for accountability and reform among today’s youth. Abu Sense, co-creator of the series, stressed the importance of contextualizing Kenya’s history to understand its current trajectory. Ngartia, another co-creator, highlighted that Mboya’s imperfections demonstrate that everyone can be an agent of change, asserting, “It doesn’t take one man to turn the conscience of a nation.”
Creative director Gathoni Kimuyu remarked on the relevance of Mboya’s aspirations in inspiring the younger generation to realize their potential for social change. This sentiment echoed in the words of Beldine Moturi, a young software engineer, who emphasized the collective responsibility in societal transformation, noting, “It is each and every individual taking their part.”
The production builds upon a rich tradition of Kenyan political theatre that critiques both colonial and post-colonial administrations, echoing earlier works by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o. As TEFB continues to adapt and evolve, it plays a vital role in healing the nation by prompting critical conversations about its history and future. The closing scene of the play underscores a powerful message of freedom and rights: “We have a right to be free. We have always had the right.”
The play about Tom Mboya serves as a vital reminder of Kenya’s history and the ongoing struggles within its society. It emphasizes the importance of youth engagement in political accountability and reflects on how historical narratives can inspire present actions for change. By drawing parallels to current events, the performance highlights that many of the challenges faced in Mboya’s time are still prevalent today, urging collective action for a better future.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
