Kikuyu Elders Urge Parents to Guide Youth Against Drug Abuse During Festive Season
“In the Kikuyu tradition, young men were never allowed to drink alcohol. Only older men partook—and even then, only on special occasions.”
Kikuyu Council of Elders, led by Chairman Mwangi, address the media on safeguarding youth and preserving cultural values. Photos by Kemuma Achieng.
The Kikuyu Council of Elders in Uasin Gishu has called on parents to take a more active role in guiding their children during the festive season, citing rising cases of drug and substance abuse among young people.
Speaking on Saturday during celebrations marking the successful completion of a traditional initiation ceremony for young Kikuyu men, Council Chairman Mr. Mwangi Wa Mwaniki emphasized the significance of cultural teachings in shaping responsible adulthood. mbugua wa kimani
“This initiation is a vital part of Kikuyu tradition. It is during this period that young men are taught values that guide them throughout life, including respect, discipline and the importance of shunning alcohol and drugs,” Mwangi said. “In the Kikuyu tradition, young men were never allowed to drink alcohol. Only older men partook—and even then, only on special occasions. Today, alcohol, including illicit brews, is being abused by both the young and old. This is dangerous because we risk losing an entire generation.”
Mwangi added that the renewed interest in traditional initiation rites among parents has contributed to raising more responsible young men.
“We thank parents who have chosen the revered Kikuyu initiation pathways for their children. Since we began this exercise, the number of young people brought to us has increased every year,” he said. “We believe the numbers will continue to grow as we nurture a generation of disciplined and respectful young men.”
The Initiation chairman Mr. Mbugua Wa Kimani also clarified that the ceremony does not conflict with religious teachings, noting that many families from different denominations continue to embrace the tradition.
During the event, members of the Nyakinyua Women’s Group also took part in the celebrations, expressing appreciation for the role of elders in restoring discipline and positive behavior among young men.
“We thank our elders for helping reshape our homes through these important teachings,” said Wanjiru Wa Irungu the Nyakinyua chairlady. “As Nyakinyua women, we are here not only to witness this important transition but also to guide our young girls. We teach them what is expected of them as Kikuyu girls—how to care for their homes, uphold values, and eventually maintain strong marriages when the time comes.”
She added that, unlike in the past, Kikuyu girls are not circumcised, emphasizing that they now undergo mentorship and receive practical guidance instead.
The Kikuyu Council of Elders further urged communities across the country to preserve and embrace cultural practices that promote discipline, identity and moral grounding.
“Useful traditions should not be abandoned,” Mwangi noted. “They help us maintain our identity and strengthen the future of our communities.”
About Author
