National Heritage

Cracked Tom Mboya Monument

By Erick Diang'a                                                                                                                                        

Tom Mboya memorial is one among the cenotaphs found within the Nairobi Central Business District. It is located along the Moi Avenue next to the National Archives. The then Head of state, Hon Mwai Kibaki unveiled the monument on 20^th October 2011.

A self-trained Oshoto Ondula at a cost of 15 Million Kenya Shillings sculpted the monument with lots of skills. The sculpture was erected about ten metres from the ground and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The plague it stands on was made of fortified synthetic leather to imitate the stony appearance. 

Cast bronze was used due its durability and efficiency.

Contrary to the elegant descriptions above, the monument is currently in a perturbing condition. The decorations and symbolic flamingos placed at the base of the commemorative are no longer eye catching. The intense dilapidation of the monument reveals contrary to the amount spent by the government to commemorate the assassinated leader 44 years ago.

 Sports is one factor that promote integration in our country; the trend in celebrating a win after matches does not portray understanding of individuals in regard to national heritage protection and honour.

One of the causes leading to the destruction of the monument is stampede by Gor Mahia football fans before and after remarkable football matches. In the event they emerge winnners, they gather around Tom’s statue singing and chanting catchphrases in response to their victory. It is not once or twice, it’s a tendency that the government should not entertain. The ministry of State for National Heritage and Culture should give stern warning against dishonoring departed heroes.

Kenyans are not superior nurturers of national heritage. They circumvent responsibilities bestowed upon them by intentionally razing down national assets. We should commit to memory that the city council askaris have roles in the national development rather than being guards to anticipated evils committed by idlers.

The monument financially benefits photographers who use the site as background for photography. Any Kenyan would feel great posing for a photo next to Tom’s statue only when it is in the creative shape.

 Monuments also serve as tourist attraction models; which when face lifted, may earn the country foreign exchange.