The Dracaena cinnabari tree is one of the most distinct trees in the plant kingdom – and botanists would agree. From its huge umbrella shape that allows it to be a canopy for anything within its immediate surroundings, to its ability to grow on rocky ground and preserve water for many years – it’s a sight to behold and know. It’s no wonder that Mathare shares this name.
In case you’re wondering, Mathare is actually the Kikuyu word for Dracaena – and rightfully so. This neighbourhood is the second largest informal settlement in Kenya, a canopy to several Kenyans who take pride in their endurance and strength. These attributes trace back to the first Mathare dwellers.
Pioneer Mathare-ans
Back in the 1920s, the colonial government enforced strict measures on residential areas in Kenya. With Africans zoned into areas like the present day Pangani and Eastleigh, the population increased rapidly. Overcrowding was inevitable, but not every African had easy access to settle in these areas. A few kilometres south of Pangani was an unoccupied valley filled with stone and Dracaena trees. Unclaimed and within close proximity to an existing African zone, it was inviting. Without hesitation the first crop of Mathare residents set up.
More Kenyans followed suit as the demand to be closer to the capital city for labour purposes increased. Some Pangani residents forced out of Pangani due to financial reasons also set up homes in Mathare. By the end of the 1930s, the neighbourhood had begun spreading to the eastern edge of the area, close to what would become the Mathare River.
A community of revolutionaries
But even with this growth, settlement was sure to be limited as rock quarrying was a common business along the valley. In fact, this is where a large number of rocks for construction was sourced, albeit these businesses were primarily owned by Asians. Yet this didn’t deter the sense of community that burgeoned even as the neighbourhood swelled with people.
By the fifties, Mathare was an area popular for its open opposition to the colonial government. It’s said that a number of Mau Mau rebels as well as avid supporters of their cause lived here. This naturally made the estate a recurring target of attacks – most of which ended with several houses demolished – during the 1952-1960 state of emergency.
Outwardly ignored, inwardly whole
After independence, little changed for this neighbourhood that began to transition into an informal settlement. Seasons of hardship then insecurity threatened to tear down the residents. But they emerged stronger and with a deeper sense of connectedness.
In 1994 the community produced the Mathare United Football Club. This sports team swiftly became a Kenyan favourite and continues displaying prowess and synergy in one accord.
Watu wa Mathare!
Mathare today is many things – including home to Paukwa People who, in their daily acts, reflect the positive values we admire. Isaac ‘Kaka’ Muasa for instance, has for years worked with his community in Mathare to ensure the cleanliness of the area and even put up a community centre that serves as a haven for the neighbourhood youth.
There are also stories of Mathare Community Health Volunteers (CHVs). These individuals dedicate their days to walking from house to house to guide households on personal hygiene and sanitation practices.
Indeed, Mathare carries on with the uniqueness of the early Dracaena trees that once occupied the area.
#HistoryOfMathare #MitaaYetu
