Published on: May 23, 2025 12:08 (EAT)

In a colourful and symbolic ceremony held on Monday in Nyeri County, Dr. Kennedy Odede, founder and CEO of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), was officially installed as a Kikuyu elder.

The coronation was led by senior members of the Kiama Kia Ma, including National Vice Chair Dr. Njoroge wa Mugo and Nyeri County Patron Njaramba Wanjii. The event recognized Dr. Odede’s contributions to community development and efforts to promote national unity.

Adorned in traditional regalia, Odede received symbols of elderhood—a ceremonial walking stick, traditional shirt, hat, and fly whisk—signifying his new status within the Kikuyu cultural hierarchy.

“This is more than an honour; it is a call to responsibility,” Odede said in his acceptance speech. “The wisdom of our elders should be a foundation for peace, not division.”

Dr. Odede has led SHOFCO’s growth from a grassroots initiative in Kibera to a nationwide organization delivering essential services in urban informal settlements and underserved rural communities. He emphasized the role of elders in modern society, calling them "moral compasses" during times of political uncertainty.

“Elders must be respected and protected from political exploitation. Their voices should guide and unite, not divide,” he said.

The elders commended Odede for his commitment to improving the lives of the poor across Kenya. Njaramba Wanjii described him as “a leader who uplifts others without seeking personal glory,” while Dr. Mugo noted that elderhood in Kikuyu tradition is earned through wisdom and service, not age.

“Dr. Odede has walked with the people. Today, the people walk with him,” said Dr. Mugo.

The ceremony also underscored Odede’s broader push to strengthen local cultural institutions and build coalitions for grassroots development. Under his leadership, SHOFCO has partnered with counties including Meru, Vihiga, and Kilifi to deliver health, education, and women’s empowerment programs.

Following the event in Nyeri, Dr. Odede met with Meru’s Njuri Njeke elders, who praised his inclusive development work. Secretary General Josphat Murangiri called for stronger collaboration between SHOFCO, county governments, and traditional leadership structures.

“We urge SHOFCO and local leaders to work closely with councils like the Njuri Njeke to ensure no village is left behind,” said Murangiri.

Looking ahead, Dr. Odede announced plans to convene a National Elders’ Convention, bringing together representatives from Kenya’s ethnic councils to discuss peace, national unity, and development priorities.

“What we need is an elders’ roundtable—above politics and tribe—to guide the youth, preserve cultural values, and promote dialogue,” he said. “Elders are not relics of the past; they are guides to the future.”