Mary Khimulu
Mary Khimulu is an Ambassador of the Republic of #Kenya to @unesco aged 74 years. While Photographing her for #oldernotover campaign she said,”I want to know that I can still take care of myself. I want to be independent and not a burden to my children. I want to be able to take care of myself, and always be prepared…”
Her advice to women emphasizes professionalism and self-respect, traits she embodies herself. While she was once perceived as outgoing, she now treasures solitude, finding it rejuvenating. Described by loved ones as selfless and kind, Ambassador Khimulu embraces old age for the freedom it offers, despite being surprised by the body’s natural decline, she maintains that the older generation is just getting started.
My name is Kinuthia Wamwangi, and I’ve called Thika home since I served as a town clerk back in 1992. At 74 years old, I find myself in a fulfilling stage of life. I’m happily married to Teresia Wamwangi, and we have been blessed with five children.
These days, life is tranquil, free from unnecessary worries. I make my living as an itinerant consultant and facilitator at conferences. My aspirations for the future are focused on enhancing the consultancy profession. Additionally, I serve as an ambassador for older persons with HelpAge, advocating for their rights and ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.
Each day begins with a prayer—a humble surrender to the divine. I approach the morning with a clear plan of action, ready to tackle the tasks ahead. Life has seen its share of transformations, from the transitions through various levels of schooling to landing my first job at the age of 25.
As an advocate for older persons, it pains me deeply to witness discrimination against them, whether it’s the denial of basic services or employment opportunities. I hold great admiration for individuals like Isaiah Kiplagat, whose work, discernment, and wisdom inspire me.
Among my proudest achievements is the journey from a legal officer to the esteemed position of town clerk. This path led me to contribute to the devolution committee, a significant milestone in my career. Additionally, completing and publishing my book on decentralization stands as a testament to my dedication to my profession.
I urge others to embrace sincerity, spontaneity, religious humility, and continuous professional improvement. To the younger generation, I offer the advice of self-awareness and striving for excellence in all endeavors.
Known for my integrity and principled nature, I am often described by my family as wise, intelligent, and humble. The greatest surprise of aging for me is the gift of longevity, a blessing that I cherish each day.
My name is Peter Ouma Onjong’, and I’m 63 years old. I reside in Kisumu Ndogo, Nairobi, where I share my life with my beloved wife. Together, we’ve been blessed with seven children and are proud grandparents to four grandchildren. By profession, I work as a security guard.
Despite the challenges, I find happiness in my life today, and I harbor no regrets. Those who know me, both family and friends, might describe me as predictable yet visionary. One of my greatest accomplishments is ensuring that all my children receive an education, up to college level. Through this journey, I’ve come to understand the value of patience in life.
Leadership and organization are skills that come naturally to me. I actively participate in groups that support girls’ education and a socioeconomic program centered around raising rare chickens. Additionally, I cherish the opportunity to stay physically fit through regular exercise, a necessity for my role as a security guard.
PETER OUMA
I am the founder of Dreams of Hope Foundation, a community initiative that provides a safe space for girls to engage in arts, dancing, and access a library. These community halls play a crucial role in keeping children occupied, learning, and fostering self-care. Moreover, they allow parents to monitor their children’s activities closely.
Witnessing the positive impact of our center fills me with immense pride. We offer guidance and mentorship to these girls, steering them away from the risks of early marriage and pregnancy. Our services are provided free of charge, a decision reached mutually with the girls we serve. Giving back to my community through this foundation brings me profound satisfaction in my later years.
In essence, I believe it’s essential to invest in the next generation, and through Dreams of Hope Foundation, I strive to do just that.
I’m Cecilia Mbaka, 61 years old, currently residing in NAIROBI. Nairobi was my home for nearly three decades. I’ve been married with three wonderful boys, aged 30, 28, and 25. Although I don’t have grandchildren yet, I can’t complain about life today; I find happiness and contentment in every day. My financial stability comes from my pension after serving the government for over 30 years, coupled with income from investments my husband and I have made together.
My greatest hope is to maintain good health and continue inspiring others for as long as I can. Generally, I sleep well, but occasionally, old age plays tricks on my sleep patterns, especially when family matters weigh on my mind at night. The pivotal moment in my life was when I got married and started a family, a journey that has brought me immense joy and fulfillment.
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate not to face any major setbacks or penalties. I’m proud to have been part of the gender activism movement, contributing to positive changes for young girls and women, empowering them to lead more fulfilling lives. I draw inspiration from my optimistic and organized mother, hoping to emulate her resilience as I age gracefully.
CECILIA MBAKA
One of my proudest achievements is mentoring and guiding individuals throughout my career, providing them with direction and support. A valuable life lesson I’ve learned is the importance of staying positive, focused, and visionary, regardless of life’s challenges.
To the younger generation, I advise them to value their interactions with older people, making time for meaningful conversations and preparing adequately for their retirement years. Few know that I have a passion for exercising and excel in management, networking, public speaking, and coordination.
Those closest to me would likely describe me as supportive, caring, and motherly. What I appreciate most about this stage of life is the freedom to engage in activities I couldn’t during my working years, such as spending quality time with family. However, retirement, being a workaholic, has been a surprising adjustment, requiring psychological preparation.
My name is Mary Owiti, and I’ve been a resident of Woodley since 1968. Life has taken me through its twists and turns. I married, and sadly, my husband passed away, leaving me with our beloved son, Moses Odhiambo. Despite the challenges, life has remained interesting.
These days, I find purpose and sustenance in running my food joint. It’s not just a business; it’s my lifeline. The hopes I harbor for the future are all tied to its growth. Every morning, it’s what propels me out of bed, what keeps me going.
My journey to this point has been marked by pivotal moments. I remember vividly how my perspective shifted when I pursued nursing, even studying abroad in Britain. However, not all memories from my nursing days are pleasant. I faced racial discrimination during my time at Nairobi Hospital. It was a harsh reality check, a stark reminder of the world’s injustices.
Reflecting on the past, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia. Life seemed simpler back then. I was cared for, and the nation was in a better state. Amidst it all, my proudest achievement remains my career as a nurse. There’s a certain fulfillment that comes from caring for others, from making a difference in their lives.
If I could offer advice to the younger generation, it would be to embrace kindness and honesty. These virtues can truly shape a better world. In my younger days, I loved to dance, but age has a way of slowing us down. Now, I find solace in being described as motherly by my family, even though I resist the limitations that come with old age. Inactivity is not something I welcome with open arms.
I am George Maina Mbogua, aged 76, and I have spent my entire life in Kabira. Throughout the years, I’ve been married and blessed with six children and several grandchildren. Life for me now is quite challenging as I bear the responsibility of providing for my large family solely through the modest earnings I generate from farming activities, particularly goat and sheep rearing.
Despite the difficulties, my hopes for the future are centered around being able to adequately support my family and expand my farming enterprise. Thankfully, I am able to rest well at night knowing that medical assistance is available whenever I fall ill. Each morning, my motivation to wake up stems from the desire to care for my animals and attend to the needs of my youngest child.
Farming has been my lifelong occupation, and I take great pride in it. To the younger generation, I impart the wisdom of self-acceptance and the power of prayer. Despite being perceived as reserved, I am quite observant and enjoy sharing insights with others. Known for my loving and caring nature, I have also honed my skills in plumbing. Old age has its challenges, particularly the quick onset of fatigue, but I am grateful for every day and hopeful for a longer life ahead.
I’m Beatrice Wangari Mwangi, 73 years old, and I’ve called Kibera home for the past 26 years. Though I’ve never married, I’ve been blessed with four children, though two have passed on, leaving me with seven beloved grandchildren. To make ends meet, I sell fruits and vegetables in the market.
Life these days isn’t easy, especially compared to my younger years. But I hold onto hope for better days ahead. The drive to earn a living is what gets me out of bed each morning. The loss of my two children has been the most significant change in my life, a pain that no parent should ever have to endure.
In my line of work, I’ve never felt looked down upon as a woman. I draw inspiration from my resilient mother, who at 105 years old, continues to be my role model. The moments I cherish most are spent sitting and interacting with my grandchildren, bringing me immense joy.
Despite what many might think, I have a hidden talent for baking cakes, a skill that surprises people. My advice to the younger generation is to steer clear of drugs and prioritize love above all else. Kind, strict, and generous are three words that best describe me.
I take pride in my age and pray for more years to come. Being called a grandmother fills me with pride and joy.
I’m Dolline Bosolo, a 68-year-old residing in NAIROBI, although I’ve spent much of my life in Nairobi. I’m happily married and we have been blessed with four children – three sons and a daughter, along with grandchildren.
Life today brings contentment as I have the time to engage in activities I enjoy. My livelihood comes from renting out my guest house, farming, providing meal planning services as a nutritionist, and offering consultancy and psychology services. My hopes for the future are centered around witnessing the success of my grandchildren in both spiritual and professional aspects, eagerly anticipating my children’s weddings, and fulfilling my dream of writing a book.
I prioritize my well-being by ensuring I get enough physical exercise and maintain a healthy diet, which enables me to sleep well. Each morning, I am motivated by my spiritual engagements and the desire to keep moving forward.
The turning points in my life include getting married and facing the adjustments that came with it. Joining HelpAge as a regional nutritionist was also transformative, presenting both eye-opening experiences and challenges. Thankfully, I’ve never encountered any gender-based discrimination in my career, as I prepared well for my job and navigated any challenges that arose with ease.
Dolline Bosolo
Comparing life across generations is difficult, as each has its own unique set of challenges. However, I’ve managed to transition well and adapt to the changing times. I deeply admire a friend from church with whom I’ve prayed for over 40 years. Her problem-solving skills, broad-mindedness, and consistency inspire me.
My proudest achievement is earning the trust and support of my children, who willingly share their spiritual journeys with me. My advice to others is rooted in faith, as I believe that trusting in the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge. I encourage the younger generation to persevere despite discouragement from others.
People are often surprised when I share the story of why I changed my name. In addition to mentoring and training, I excel in cooking healthy meals. Described as loving, caring, and prayerful, I find joy and fulfillment in old age, where I am prioritized and respected.
Rosemary Wanja Mwathi
I am Rosemary Wanja Mwathi, 71 years old, and I’ve lived in Satellite West for 35 years. Despite being married, I am separated, and I have seven children, along with several grandchildren.
Life has become challenging due to arthritis, which often causes my leg to fail me. To make a living, I crochet and make clothes, hoping for a future where the pain subsides, and I can secure employment. Sleep eludes me at night, partly due to my physical condition and partly due to a habit formed since my youth. I find solace in listening to the radio and praying during those restless nights.
Each morning, I rise to tend to household chores and continue my crocheting work. Regular walks in the morning, as advised by my doctor, are part of my routine to manage my condition. The turning point in my life came with marriage and motherhood, requiring adjustments and sacrifices for the well-being of my children.
Despite facing no penalties as a woman during my time as a truck driver, life has become difficult due to illness and overall physical weakness. Previously, I had the energy to manage both work and family responsibilities.
I deeply admire a fellow church member, a resilient 96-year-old woman whose strength and faith inspire me. My proudest achievement lies in my steadfast commitment to church and regular fellowship.
To the younger generation, I urge them to stay focused, content, and respectful towards their elders. My culinary skills and proficiency in tailoring are among my lesser-known talents. Described as accommodative, a good listener, and a natural leader by my family and friends, I continue to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and faith.
Teresia Wamwangi
My name is Teresia Wamwangi, and I have lived in Thika since 1979. I am married and blessed with five children, along with one precious granddaughter. Life at present is serene and enjoyable, regardless of the state of the nation. My income stems from my pension, earned from my years of service as a teacher. Throughout my career, I never faced any penalties due to my gender. I am grateful for the progress women have made; now, we have more autonomy and freedom to pursue our aspirations.
Looking forward, I hope for many more years on this earth, where I can continue to make a positive impact on society. When sleep eludes me at night, I find solace in listening to music. Each morning, I am motivated by the anticipation of what the day may bring.
One of my role models is Wangari Maathai, renowned for her determination and drive. My life underwent a significant change when I got married, requiring me to adapt and learn crucial skills to nurture my marriage. My proudest achievement is nurturing and witnessing the growth of my family.
A valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of patience, prayer, and trusting the process. To the younger generation, I advise embracing change, maintaining focus, and allowing themselves time to achieve their aspirations.
Despite my routine in eating habits, I am naturally curious and enjoy trying new things. Those closest to me describe me as a timekeeper, organized, and possessing clarity of mind. I appreciate old age for allowing me to be true to myself and pursue activities at my own pace. Surprisingly, I am healthy and strong in my old age, contrary to my expectations.
