The Singing Wells of Marsabit: A Motorcycle Adventure Through Northern Kenya's Hidden Treasures

The Singing Wells of Marsabit: A Motorcycle Adventure Through Northern Kenya’s Hidden Treasures

by with No Comment Adventures

Having traversed most of Northern Kenya’s rugged terrain on my trusted Kawasaki KLR 650, one magnificent region remained unexplored on my adventure riding map – Marsabit County. The call of the unknown was irresistible, compelling me to pack my gear and set out on a five-day motorcycle expedition through Marsabit’s challenging landscapes. While this remote northern county boasts numerous breathtaking attractions, my heart was set on witnessing a particular marvel that had captured my imagination – the legendary Singing Wells of Ilaut. Their name alone had intrigued me for years, and I was determined to experience their ancient magic firsthand.

Day One: From Limuru to Nanyuki – When Adventure Plans Meet Reality

The journey began promisingly with perfect riding weather. I departed from Limuru at dawn, the morning sun warming my back as I cruised along Thika Road, bound for Nanyuki – my first planned stopover. The KLR 650 performed flawlessly, eating up the miles as I pushed northward.

However, about 60 kilometers from Nanyuki, adventure struck in an unexpected way – my Samsung M33 phone somehow worked its way out of my riding jacket’s secure pocket and crashed onto the unforgiving tarmac. Remarkably, despite the impact at highway speed, it wasn’t completely destroyed. The screen, unfortunately, had shattered so thoroughly that it became entirely unresponsive – a serious setback for a solo rider relying on navigation in remote areas.

Exploring Marsabit County on a KLR 650: A Journey to Kenya's Ancient Singing Wells
Exploring Marsabit County on a KLR 650: A Journey to Kenya’s Ancient Singing Wells

Motorcycle Adventure Lesson #1: Expect the Unexpected

Determined to remedy this situation, I continued to Nanyuki and made my first unplanned stop at a Samsung service center, only to hear the dreaded words that every traveler fears: “Oh madam, hatuna kioo ya hiyo” (we don’t have the screen for that model).

Undeterred, I enlisted the help of local boda boda riders, who directed me through Nanyuki’s busy streets to several phone repair shops. After multiple inquiries, I finally discovered a small shop whose technician could order the replacement screen from Nairobi. “Inachukua three hours tu,” the attendant assured me – just three hours, and I could resume my journey.

My initial plan had been to reach Archer’s Post by nightfall, but with this unexpected delay, I had to adapt quickly – another valuable lesson in adventure motorcycle touring. I secured accommodation in Nanyuki instead, and by the following morning, my phone was restored and ready for the challenging roads ahead.

Day Two: Entering Marsabit County – The Gateway to Northern Kenya’s Wonders

At the first light of dawn, I fired up my KLR’s engine, its familiar throaty rumble breaking the morning silence as I set course for Marsabit County. The morning ride was spectacular, with the magnificent Mount Kenya receding in my mirrors as I pushed further north into increasingly arid landscapes.

My first significant stop was Merille Town, where I fortuitously arrived on a bustling market day. The vibrant scene of traders, livestock, and colorful local goods provided a perfect introduction to Marsabit’s rich cultural tapestry. As is customary when crossing into a new Kenyan county, I paused at the welcoming gate to capture a photograph – tangible proof that I had finally reached Marsabit County! The realization felt surreal after years of planning.

Navigating to the Ancient Singing Wells

From Merille, I continued my ride to Laisamis, where my adventure took an unexpected but exciting turn. My digital navigation maps weren’t displaying the exact location of Ilaut – a common challenge when exploring Kenya’s more remote regions. I stopped to consult with locals, who informed me that Ilaut lay quite far off my current position, requiring extensive off-road riding – music to any adventure motorcyclist’s ears!

The knowledgeable locals suggested an alternative plan: visit the equally impressive Singing Wells of Laisamis first, spend the night locally, and then tackle the more challenging route to Ilaut the following day. Though this meant adjusting my itinerary yet again, four years of adventure riding had taught me a valuable lesson – plans rarely survive contact with the road, especially in Northern Kenya.

The Enchanting Singing Wells of Laisamis: Where Tradition Meets Survival

The Enchanting Singing Wells of Laisamis: Where Tradition Meets Survival
 Singing Wells of Laisamis: Where Tradition Meets Survival
The Camel Whisperers of Northern Kenya
Kagwiria Murungi with The Camel Whisperers of Northern Kenya
The Enchanting Singing Wells of Laisamis: Where Tradition Meets Survival
The Enchanting Singing Wells of Laisamis: Where Tradition Meets Survival

A local guide named Shabani agreed to escort me to the wells, and what I witnessed there exceeded my wildest imagination. Hundreds of camels were being systematically watered by Rendille morans (warriors) dressed in full traditional regalia. On the opposite side of the well complex, other morans were bathing completely naked – a natural part of their daily routine.

Initially hesitant about intruding with my camera, I held back until Shabani spoke to the warriors in Rendille. Their initial curiosity about the unexpected motorcycle visitor quickly transformed into warm Kenyan hospitality as they invited me closer to observe this ancient practice.

The Camel Whisperers of Northern Kenya

The morans demonstrated their profound connection with their livestock, showing me their techniques for removing ticks from the camels, explaining the significance of different camel colorations, and identifying the lead camel by the distinctive large bell around its neck. But the most astonishing moment was yet to come.

The true magic of the Singing Wells revealed itself when the morans positioned themselves at different levels of the deep well and began to sing – producing deep, rhythmic, almost hypnotic chants that echoed across the landscape. To my utter amazement, the camels recognized their specific herders’ voices amidst the chorus and obediently approached their designated watering troughs in perfect order.

It was a breathtaking display – a harmonious symphony between humans and animals, refined over countless generations. Despite language barriers (the morans spoke neither English nor Swahili, with only Shabani able to translate), the universal language of humanity transcended words. I stood mesmerized, privileged to witness this ancient practice that few outsiders ever see.

Next Stop: The Hidden Gem of Ilaut – Northern Kenya’s Best-Kept Secret

As the African sun dipped below the horizon, I secured basic accommodation in Laisamis, my mind racing with anticipation for the next day’s journey to Ilaut. Local advice suggested two possible routes – a shorter but potentially hazardous path made unpredictable by recent rains, or a safer though considerably longer route via Loglogo using the Malgis road.

With my adventure spirit fully ignited and the KLR 650 ready for whatever challenges lay ahead, I could barely contain my excitement for what promised to be the most remarkable segment of my Northern Kenya exploration.

Stay tuned for Part Two of my ride to the Singing Wells of Ilaut—where ancient tradition, untamed nature, and the breathtaking beauty of Marsabit County converge in one unforgettable motorcycle adventure.

Author: Kagwiria Murungi
Photography: All images © Kagwiria Murungi Rides
Follow my adventures: @kagwiriamurungirides
Website: https://kagwiriamurungirides.africa

Breaking the Silence: Combating Period Poverty and Sexual Exploitation in Kenyan Schools

Breaking the Silence: Combating Period Poverty and Sexual Exploitation in Kenyan Schools

by with No Comment Uncategorized

This year, my mission is clear: Riding for Impact. As a motorcycle adventure rider traversing Kenya’s diverse landscapes, my work focuses on three critical areas that demand our attention:

  • Education – Amplifying the stories of children and the challenges they face in Kenyan schools
  • Health – Advocating for better access to menstrual hygiene products and healthcare in underserved communities
  • Cultural Preservation – Documenting the traditions, struggles, and resilience of different Kenyan communities

Through my rides, I venture into the unseen and unheard corners of Kenya, immersing myself in diverse cultures and using my platform to spark critical conversations that shape our communities and country.

The Hidden Crisis in Dagoretti: When Children Speak Truth

My journey recently took me to Dagoretti in Nairobi County, where what I expected to be a simple school visit transformed into a moment of profound revelation.

A young girl stood up, her voice barely above a whisper yet carrying the weight of something deeply painful. She spoke of fear—fear in her own home. Before I could fully absorb her words, another student responded, revealing just how deeply ingrained misconceptions and silence are in Kenyan society.

Later that day, I listened to a group of boys share their own struggles—feelings of confusion and embarrassment about their natural bodily changes, experiences they felt they couldn’t discuss without shame. These were the authentic voices of Kenyan children, their struggles, their realities. And yet, as a society, we often look away, leaving them to navigate these challenges alone.

This moment was a stark reminder of why we must act.

Menstrual Mental Voice: Creating Safe Spaces for Kenyan Youth

Last year, together with Street Talent Africa, we launched Menstrual Mental Voice, a project dedicated to creating safe spaces for students to have honest conversations about their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We started with six schools in Dagoretti, but this is only the beginning.

Our mission will culminate in a mega event on May 28, 2025, bringing together students, school leaders, religious and community elders, political figures, and key government ministries to address the pressing issues affecting young people in Kenyan schools.

Sex for Pads: The Harrowing Reality of Period Poverty in Kenya

In these conversations, one story kept surfacing—a silent crisis unfolding in many Kenyan neighborhoods. A crisis where young girls, some as young as 12, are forced to trade their bodies for something as basic as sanitary pads.

For these girls, menstruation is not just a biological process; it is a source of shame, fear, and exploitation. When parents cannot afford to buy pads—whether due to poverty, ignorance, absenteeism, or addiction—the girls are left to find their own solutions. In some homes, the choice between food and sanitary products is a painful one, and food often wins. But menstruation does not pause for poverty.

Desperate and without options, these girls turn to anyone willing to “help.” Sometimes, it’s a “friend,” a man in his 30s or older, who takes advantage of their vulnerability. Other times, it’s a boda boda rider, a neighbor, a caretaker, or even a boyfriend. The exchange is rarely innocent—it comes at a devastating price. The men who “help” often mock them, saying:

“Wacha nikusaidie na 9 months hautakuwa na periods.” (Let me help you, and for nine months, you won’t have periods.)

The cruelty in those words is a stark reminder of the power imbalance at play in Kenya’s period poverty crisis.

These tragic transactions happen in the most degrading of settings—inside shared toilets, in bushes, in men’s houses. The psychological and emotional toll on these Kenyan girls is unimaginable. They are forced to sacrifice their dignity and safety just to manage a natural bodily function.

Beyond Pads: Addressing the Root Causes of Period Poverty in Kenya

The repercussions are devastating. Teenage pregnancies are on the rise in Kenya, trapping young girls in a cycle of poverty and dependency. Many of these young mothers must now juggle school, survival, and childcare, often using unhygienic alternatives like mattress sponges as makeshift pads. The trauma of their experiences lingers, shaping their futures in ways that are difficult to undo.

But amidst this grim reality, there is hope. Community-led initiatives across Kenya are stepping up to tackle this crisis head-on:

  • Pad Banks – Collection points where anyone can donate sanitary pads for Kenyan schoolgirls
  • Community Conversations – Engaging parents, teachers, and local leaders to break the stigma surrounding menstruation
  • Policy Advocacy – Pushing for better implementation of Kenya’s free sanitary pad distribution program in schools

While the Kenyan government has allocated a budget for free sanitary pads in public schools, implementation remains inconsistent. The gap between policy and reality is a chasm swallowing the futures of young Kenyan girls.

Join the Movement: Riding for Impact Against Period Poverty

As members of Kenyan society, we must ask ourselves: What role do we play in this crisis? Providing pads is not enough. We must address the root causes of period poverty—poverty itself, ignorance, and systemic neglect. We must create a world where no Kenyan girl has to choose between her dignity and her survival.

How You Can Help Fight Period Poverty in Kenya

  1. Donate Supplies: Support our pad banks by donating menstrual products or funds
  2. Raise Awareness: Share these stories and break the silence around menstruation
  3. Advocate for Change: Hold local leaders accountable for implementing existing policies
  4. Volunteer: Join our community conversations and school programs
  5. Partner With Us: Organizations can collaborate on larger initiatives

This is why I ride. This is why I tell these stories. Because change begins with awareness. Change begins with us.

If we truly care about Kenya’s future, we must break the silence around period poverty. We must talk. We must listen. We must act.

Join me on this journey. Let’s ride for impact against period poverty in Kenya.

Contact us: info@kagwiriamurungirides.africa
Follow the journey: Kagwiria Murungi Rides across all socials
Support our cause: https://kagwiriamurungirides.africa/support-the-course/

Visiting Turkana on two wheels

Off-road in Turkana : A motorcycle Expedition with a mission

by with No Comment AdventuresInitiatives

Turkana County , the vast, sun-scorched land of resilient people, endless horizons, and untold stories. When I set out for this 30-day motorcycle expedition, I knew it would be one of the toughest rides of my life. Coming from Limuru, where temperatures can drop to a crisp 9°C, nothing could have prepared me for the searing 38°C heat that hit me the moment I arrived in Lodwar.

Touring Turkana on a motorcycle
Kagwiria Murungi Rides through Turkana

But I was ready.

For two years, I had meticulously planned this journey. I connected with Lokaru, a legendary Turkana biker who had ridden through all 47 counties. If anyone could guide me through this unforgiving terrain, it was him. My motorcycle, the Kawasaki KLR 650, was in peak condition ; new tires, a fresh battery, and every essential spare part packed. Two extra 5-liter fuel jerrycans sat securely on my bike, ready for the long stretches where petrol stations were non-existent.

Turkana is breathtaking, but it is not for the faint-hearted. The terrain is a punishing, a  mix of deep sand (fesh-fesh), jagged rocky trails, and dried-up riverbeds that tested my riding skills like never before. Each day brought new challenges, but the unwavering spirit of the Turkana people fueled my resolve.

How a motorbike handles the rough terrain of turkana
Riding through the Unforgiving Terrain that is Turkana

I didn’t just pass through the villages , I lived among the community, sharing meals, listening to their stories, and understanding their way of life. It was during these moments that I saw the real struggles they face daily, challenges that technology could help solve.

While riding, I visited five remarkable women’s groups in Epur, Kataboi, and Lobolo (Kangatotha). These Mother-to-Mother (M2M) groups are lifelines for women – safe spaces where pregnant and lactating mothers support each other, engage in table banking, create jewelry, and manage small kitchen gardens. But their gardens had withered due to lack of water, their irrigation pumps broken and abandoned.

In Katilu Irrigation Scheme, women farmers rely on expensive diesel-powered pumps to keep their nurseries alive. The cost is unsustainable.

In Lobolo, children huddle around smoky fires at night, struggling to do their homework due to lack of lighting. Something as simple as a solar lamp could change their future.

This journey was never just about adventure , it was about finding real solutions for the communities I visited. And now, with the support of sponsors, I am working to bring technology-driven solutions to these resilient women and children.

This journey was never just about adventure—it was about finding real solutions for the communities I visited. And now, with the support of sponsors and people like you, I’m working to bring technology-driven solutions to these resilient women and children of Turkana.

Our Mission in Action:
– Solar-powered water pumps to revive kitchen gardens and farms
– Affordable lighting solutions for schoolchildren to study after dark
– Sustainable energy alternatives to replace expensive diesel-powered systems
– Training programs to help communities maintain and repair these systems

Your Support Makes a Difference
Whether you can contribute financially, share technical expertise, or simply help spread the word, every action brings us closer to empowering the Turkana communities who welcomed me so warmly.

Join the Movement
1. Donate: Support our technology fund directly at [donation link] 2. Partner: Businesses and organizations can contact us for partnership opportunities
3. Volunteer: Technical experts are needed for installation and training
4. Share: Help spread the word about these incredible communities and their needs

Let’s ride for change, let’s ride for impact. Together, we can power a brighter future for Turkana.

Contact us: info@kagwiriamurungirides.africa | +254 706 287560
Follow the journey: Facebook and Instagram: Kagwiria Murungi Rides

 

 

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Zena Mulei: The Unstoppable Force Transforming Lives of Nairobi’s Street Children

by with No Comment Initiatives

In the bustling heart of Nairobi, where the pace of city life never slows, one woman is making a profound difference. Her name is Zena Mulei, and she is the driving force behind Homeless of Nairobi, a grassroots initiative dedicated to feeding, rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintegrating street children and homeless adults. 

I first met Zena in Deep Sea, and from that moment, I knew she was extraordinary. She is not just a friend; she is a warrior for the forgotten, a beacon of hope for those who have none. When I say I have met incredible women, I truly mean it. 

A Mission Rooted in Compassion 

From Monday to Friday, Zena and her team provide daily meals to homeless adults and children across Nairobi’s streets. But her efforts don’t stop there. She also runs a feeding program for children in the Deep Sea slums, ensuring they receive at least one nutritious meal a day. 

Beyond providing food, Zena has established a community library where children can complete their homework and assignments after school. During school holidays, she organizes kids’ camps, creating a safe and nurturing environment for them to learn, play, and dream beyond their circumstances. 

Rescue, Rehabilitate, Reintegrate 

Zena’s work extends far beyond feeding. Homeless of Nairobi has rescued countless boys and girls from the streets, guiding them through rehabilitation and enrolling them in schools. Some have even completed high school and are now preparing to join college. 

For those battling addiction, Zena has partnered with rehabilitation centers to help them break free from drugs and reclaim their futures. The rescued children stay at a children’s home in Gashie, a sanctuary where they receive care, education, and the opportunity to start anew. 

Why She Does It 

Zena believes in second chances. She sees the good in everyone, even those society has written off. Her passion is fueled by the success stories – the boys and girls she has rescued, whose lives have been transformed because someone believed in them. 

Her mission is simple yet profound: to rescue as many as she can and to create a society where everyone gets an opportunity. 

Be Part of the Change 

Zena’s work is transforming lives, but she cannot do it alone. She needs support , your support. 

Here’s how you can help: 
1. Donate – Financial or in-kind contributions go a long way in feeding and rescuing more children. 
2. Volunteer – Your time and skills can make a real difference. 
3. Spread the Word –
Follow and support her work on Facebook: Homeless of Nairobi. 

This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate women like Zena women who don’t just talk about change but make it happen. 

#IWD2025 #InspireInclusion #HomelessOfNairobi #RidingForImpact #WomenWhoChangeTheWorld #KagwiriaMurungiRides

Kagwiria Murungi learning how to ride

Two wheels, One last prayer. ( How I began riding)

by with No Comment Adventures

“Your scan shows hyperintensities.”

Dr. Amreet, a neurosurgeon at Aga Khan, sat across from me, his voice measured, careful. But my mind was already spinning. The headaches had been unbearable—relentless, excruciating, immune to even the strongest painkillers. My vision blurred at times; confusion came in waves. The suspected cause? A post-lumbar puncture complication. Before they could intervene with an epidural blood patch—15ml of my own blood injected into my spine—they needed an MRI.

I had been under the care of Dr. Muaka for pain management, but now, sitting in this cold office, I was hearing something different.

“Aside from the physical symptoms, I suspect there’s something else.”

Psychosomatic issues. Trauma.

Dr. Amreet’s words felt like a punch to the chest. Trauma? Did he mean the 13 weeks in the hospital? Did he mean the accident?

The accident.

Or

Did he mean, the union – the place where my spirit was slowly unmade.

Two weeks in HDU. Eleven weeks of aftercare. A maxillofacial surgeon whose name I had never wanted to know. Blood everywhere. Doctors surrounding my children, working to save them. My baby in a neck brace. The sickening weight of helplessness as I was forcefully ushered out of there, waiting, unable to do anything apart from fall on my knees and call my mum ‘mamii alitaka kuniulia watoto…’

All because of a mistake.

A mistake by the person behind the wheel.

(But that’s a story for another day.)

Dr. Amreet started me on amitriptyline to help me sleep and strongly recommended counseling. I found myself at Amani Counseling Centre, where I met Naomi.

“Let’s start from the beginning.”

“Which beginning, Naomi?” I sobbed. “Which one?”

I bowed my head into my palms, utterly defeated.

Two sessions in, Naomi referred me to Dr. Okonji, a psychiatrist at Nairobi Hospital. That’s where my real diagnosis came – Depression.

I had always thought I was strong, that I could take whatever life threw at me. But that’s the thing, isn’t it? The brain gets sick, just like any other part of the body. And mine was drowning.

I was taken off amitriptyline and put on quintipin and another antidepressant I no longer remember. Days blurred together. Nights stretched endlessly. I wasn’t living. I was existing.

Then one day, I put up a post on Africa Motorcycle Diaries asking where I could learn to ride. The responses led me to Tris Motorcycles.

Tris told me to come in for training in the afternoon. I looked at her and asked, “Can I come in the evening instead?”

She didn’t know why. Not yet.

The truth? The medications I took at night didn’t wear off until 4 p.m. the next day. Before that, I was a shell. I needed to come after 5 p.m. when I was at least functional enough to balance on the bike. She agreed.

So every evening, I rode.

After each class, I would take long walks, whispering prayers into the wind. “God, I am doing this to conquer the depression. Please… just give me a second chance. Let me be normal again.”

I hadn’t felt normal in three years. And I was desperate.

That’s how I began.

You see, grace is not weakness.
It is the quiet roar of strength when life bares its teeth, ready to tear you apart.
It is standing there, battered and bruised, and still choosing kindness.
It is resisting the urge to grow claws in return.

Grace is the armor of the brave – worn not for the glory, but for the When you see me embrace a stranger,it’s not for glory,it’s for my soul.

Because the strong ones? They don’t cry for help. They whisper to themselves, “One more step. One more fight.” And no matter how broken they feel,

They stand up anyway.

(Be Encouraged , Come up for air, It is well)

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Motorcycle Ambulance Female Rider in Kajiado: Nurse Nelly Kemboi, a Champion for Maternal Health

by with No Comment Uncategorized

On my motorcycle journey in 2023 , I had the pleasure of meeting Nurse Nelly Kemboi ofs Samuli Dispensary in Samuli Village, Kajiado East – Kajiado County. Her story! nothing short of extraordinary.

Nelly, 32 years old then, was the only healthcare worker at the dispensary, singlehandedly providing medical services to the entire community. She is a nurse, a clinician, a midwife, a lab technician, a pharmacist, and even the cleaner. On top of all this, she is also a motorcycle ambulance rider, navigating rough terrain to save expectant mothers in need of urgent care.

Riding to Save Lives: The Motorcycle Ambulance That Changes Everything

What struck me the most was Nelly’s dedication to maternal health. She operates a TVS motorcycle ambulance with an attached Eezer ambulance wagon, she ferries pregnant women,expectant mothers from the remote village to the dispensary in time for safe deliveries.

Eezer, a life-changing initiative, designs motorcycle ambulances to combat maternal mortality in rural Africa. So far, Eezer has deployed 25 ambulance wagons in Kenya and other African countries, with a vision of reaching 3,000 by 2030. These ambulances have already saved countless lives, reducing maternal deaths to zero in some areas like Turkana South.

A Vision for the Future

Despite her relentless efforts, Nelly faces major challenges , there is a shortage of medical supplies, nurses, and lab technicians at the dispensary. Yet, she remains hopeful and dreams of advancing her skills in paediatric nursing, midwifery, and reproductive health to provide even better care for mothers and children.

Celebrating a True Heroine This International Women’s Day

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “Accelerate Action,” Nelly’s story is a powerful reminder of what real action looks like. She is not just delivering healthcare she is delivering hope.

How You Can Support Nurse Nelly and Eezer’s Mission

Visit Eezer’s website to learn how their motorcycle ambulance program is saving lives and how you can support.

Help ensure Nelly has the medical resources she needs. If you can contribute towards medical equipment, training, or additional staff, let’s make it happen!

Share Nelly’s story to raise awareness about the incredible impact of motorcycle ambulances in rural Kenya.

Through my rides, I encounter heroes like Nelly, whose dedication changes lives. Would you ride along on this journey for change? Let’s ensure more mothers and children in Kajiado get the care they deserve!

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Riding to the Equator: Celebrating Women Who Inspire : A Journey with Ms. Anne Keter

by with No Comment Adventures
The deep rumble of my motorcycle echoed through the morning air as I rode toward Mogotio, a small town in Kenya where the Equator silently cuts across the land. But this ride wasn’t just about crossing a geographical milestone it was about meeting a woman who has turned knowledge into empowerment. Ms. Anne Keter, a geography expert, educator, and advocate for gender equality, has made it her life’s work to inspire and uplift her community. As International Women’s Day approaches, her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and brilliance of women shaping our world. I first connected with Anne over the phone, instantly captivated by her passion for geography. She spoke with the confidence of someone who had spent years translating knowledge into real-world impact. Now, as I neared the Equator marker in Mogotio, I saw her standing with a warm, knowing smile ready to share wisdom not just about the Earth’s hemispheres, but about life itself.

A Lesson at the Center of the World

Anne’s curio shop, tucked just a few meters from the Equator, is more than a collection of artifacts it’s a hub of knowledge. “This is the center of the world,” she said, gesturing to the invisible yet powerful line that splits the planet. “Here, you stand in neither the northern nor the southern hemisphere. You are in perfect balance.” Then came one of the most fascinating demonstrations I’ve ever witnessed the Coriolis effect in action. With a simple basin of water, Anne illustrated how the Earth’s rotation influences the movement of winds and currents. Right on the Equator, water drained straight down. A few steps north, it swirled clockwise. South, it spiraled counterclockwise. Seeing this scientific wonder unfold before my eyes was mesmerizing, but Anne’s impact stretched far beyond geography.

Beyond Borders: Empowering Women and Communities

Anne is not just a teacher of science; she is a force for social change. A dedicated advocate against gender-based violence, she has spent years educating rural communities on the importance of safety, equality, and empowerment. “Understanding geography helps us navigate the world, but understanding people helps us change it,” she told me. Her work in training women and men alike to recognize and combat gender-based violence is a testament to her belief that education is the foundation of a just society.

Honoring Women Who Lead Change

As the sun painted the sky in shades of gold, I realized that this ride wasn’t just about reaching a destination it was about the people who make the journey meaningful. Ms. Anne Keter embodies the spirit of International Women’s Day: a woman who breaks barriers, educates, and uplifts others. This March 8th, let’s celebrate women like Anne – women who turn knowledge into empowerment and challenges into opportunities. Let’s amplify their voices, support their missions, and ride toward a world where every woman’s potential is recognized and honored.
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Chak a Chaka ~ Luo for ‘Just Start’

by with 2 Comments Uncategorized

One cold night at 1 AM, I was thrown out of the place I had called home , not rented,bought . As if the pain of losing everything wasn’t enough, the final words hurled at me were: “You are the devil incarnate.” But I can guarantee you,I am not.

I walked away with no money, no home, just my riding gear, fuel in my Zontes 250V, and a storm raging inside me. Depression had been my unwanted companion for three years. I had been receiving counselling from Amani Counselling Centre and psychiatric support from Dr. Okonji at Nairobi Hospital. They say, “Don’t ride when on certain meds,” but my bike and God were my lifelines. If I lost either, I would die. Not being melodramatic , just raw, unfiltered truth.

So, I rode. All night. No destination, no plan, just me, the road, and my thoughts. When morning came, I pulled over on Peponi Road, trying to think. But my mind was blank. I fired up the engine and rode towards Lower Kabete.

At Spring Valley, the familiar sight of traffic policemen signalled a stop. One of them grabbed my keys, “Madam, weka pikipiki kando.” I froze. Then, without warning, I let out a scream inside my helmet, breaking down uncontrollably. If you have never ridden with a broken heart, are you even a rider?

The officer, sensing something was terribly wrong, held onto my bike and refused to give me back the keys. He asked me to sit by the roadside to breathe. And then he did something unexpected – he listened. I don’t know if he fully understood my pain, but when I finished speaking, he looked at me and said, “Simama. Start.”

That moment, those words , they lit a tiny spark in me. I walked into a random agent’s office, desperate and exhausted. A man named Enoch listened, really listened. And instead of turning me away, he gave me a house and time to raise the deposit and rent.The lady owner gave me a bed from her house,asked some men to help me fix it in one of the rooms, and gave me beddings and a bedsheet to hang over the window. Yes, I got back to renting..siggghh!

That was my second chance.

And here I am, in 2025 , healthy, happy, and living a life I never thought I would reclaim. It took being forged in fire to decide to change my life.

So, if you see me riding, let me be. I have fought demons. I vowed never to fight again. If you see me embracing people, fighting for unheard voices, it’s because I hit rock bottom and when I did, I found out it had a basement and I know what it means to struggle physically, mentally, emotionally, financially. I also know what it means to sew back your heart thread by thread and realize that some bits are not meant to heal perfectly.

I’ll tell this story slowly, in bits. Maybe it will encourage someone. But for now, this Tuesday morning, I ask you ,come up for air, breathe – just start. Chak a Chaka.

             ~ Kagwiria Murungi ✍️ ~

www.kagwiriamurungirides.africa

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Urban Trails and Timeless Tales: A Motorcycle Journey Through Nairobi’s Hidden History

by with No Comment Adventures
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Motorcycle adventures are often synonymous with rugged trails and untamed landscapes, but I believe adventure is wherever curiosity takes you. On my latest ride through Nairobi County, I discovered two incredible locations that redefined what it means to explore: the Old Fire Station and the Nairobi Railway Museum.

A Stop at the Historic Old Fire Station

Nestled near Nairobi’s city center, the Old Fire Station is a landmark that’s easy to overlook amidst the urban bustle. Located on Tom Mboya Street, this station is one of Nairobi’s oldest fire service buildings, steeped in history and a testament to the city’s growth over the decades.

As I rolled into the compound, I was greeted warmly by the firemen on duty. They welcomed me like an old friend, a gesture that set the tone for the rest of my visit. I was immediately struck by the station’s vintage charm — the brickwork, old fire engines gleaming in the sunlight, and the palpable sense of pride the firemen took in their work.

The firemen graciously took me on a guided tour, sharing stories of Nairobi’s firefighting history. I learned about the evolution of fire engines, the bravery required for their work, and the challenges they face in a rapidly growing city. To top it all off, they served me a steaming cup of uji (porridge) — a simple yet heartwarming gesture that made me feel at home. As I sipped, I realized how much history and humanity were tucked away in this seemingly ordinary place.

Does a fire station seem like a strange destination for an adventure? Perhaps. But for me, adventure is about connection, history, and uncovering hidden gems, and the Old Fire Station delivered all three.

The Nairobi Railway Museum: A Journey Through Time

From the fire station, I rode to my next destination, the Nairobi Railway Museum, located along Workshop Road, just a short distance from the city center. The museum, a treasure trove of Kenya’s railway history, stands as a gateway to the stories that shaped the nation.

As I entered, I was greeted by the sight of towering locomotives, each bearing the weight of decades gone by. The museum houses an impressive collection of old steam engines, carriages, and other railway memorabilia. Walking among these massive machines, I could almost hear the echoes of bustling train stations and the rhythmic chugging of engines cutting across the savannah.

One of the highlights was learning about the construction of the Kenya-Uganda Railway, famously nicknamed the “Lunatic Line.” The project, which began in 1896, was fraught with challenges, from hostile terrain and disease to encounters with wildlife. The tales of the “Man-Eaters of Tsavo,” lions that allegedly attacked railway workers, were especially gripping.

The museum’s curator shared fascinating anecdotes, such as how the railway played a pivotal role in shaping Nairobi into the metropolis it is today. I also saw the luxurious carriage used by colonial governors and dignitaries, a stark contrast to the utilitarian trains that transported workers and goods. It was a vivid reminder of the different worlds that coexisted during that era.

Redefining Adventure Riding

This motorcycle adventure through Nairobi was unconventional, yet profoundly enriching. It reminded me that adventure isn’t confined to remote landscapes or daring feats. Sometimes, it’s about uncovering the stories that lie hidden in plain sight.

The Old Fire Station and the Nairobi Railway Museum are more than just historical sites; they’re living narratives of Nairobi’s past, filled with resilience, innovation, and human spirit. These places deserve a spot on every adventurer’s itinerary.

If you’re looking for a guided tour that’s equal parts history, culture, and adventure, join me on my next ride. Let’s explore the unconventional and redefine what it means to journey through Nairobi.

 

Have you visited these places or similar ones? Share your thoughts or join me on my next ride to uncover more hidden gems in Nairobi County!