On the southern-most end of the Aberdare Range lies the Lari Massacre grave site. On March 26th 1953 community members were convened by local chief Luka wa Kahangara – a collaborator with the colonial government. The discussion at this gathering was to inform the members of the village that anyone who had sworn their allegiance to the Mau Mau rebels was going to be killed by the British soldiers. This wasn’t just information being passed, rather a threat to anyone the chief felt was obstructing the plans of the Europeans. As expected, the Mau Mau disciples sent word to the Mau Mau who were at the time found in the caves within the Aberdare Forest and another secret meeting was arranged.
That night, the rebels came upon chief Luka’s homestead with pangas and machetes ready to attack. Unbeknownst to the fact that he and his family were in danger, the chief was killed almost instantly with most of his wives and children slaughtered as well. That night, 5000 people lost their lives and the few that survived were severely injured. The bodies of the demised were buried in a fenced location within this dense tropical forest in Lari District, Kiambu County.
Despite its bloody history, the Kereita Forest is presently a perfect weekday as well as weekend getaway for families, friends and business teams to unwind and experience a plethora of outdoor activities. For starters there is a cycling trail that’s bound to get your heart exhilarated as well as keep your legs slightly toned while you enjoy the variety of trees around you. Zip lining is another popular pursuit for those that believe in another life they were meant to be birds and there’s also archery to strengthen aim and test patience. If you’d like just a casual stroll amidst nature all you need is your comfortable walking shoes and an open mind to the treasures you may come across within this forest. Once the activities have been completed, you can unwind with a buffet that features an array of Kenyan meals at the forest’s restaurant set up to cater to your local taste buds. The restaurant overlooks the distant Aberdare Ranges as the meal accompaniment.
Each year, the Kereita Forest hosts the Lari Marathon – a 21-kilometre event that was first launched in 2014 and has since attracted Kenyans with a thrill for long distance events. Try it sometime. Who knows, you just might be our next Olympic marathon gold medallist.
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