As the season for boys’ circumcision gains momentum, a deep-seated cultural and spiritual divide continues to challenge community harmony in Kiambu County and other regions dominated by the Kikuyu community.
The rift exists between the council of elders, the Kiama Kia Ma, and various church leaders concerning the guidance of young men as they transition into adulthood.
The Kiama Kia Ma, representing the Kikuyu community, expresses concern that traditional cultural practices are being undermined. Elders emphasize the importance of passing down ancestral knowledge and values through established customs. They believe their council holds the legitimate authority to guide young men through this crucial period of development, ensuring they understand their heritage and responsibilities within the community.
Church leaders, on the other hand, highlight their role in providing moral and spiritual guidance grounded in Christian teachings. They maintain that their programs offer essential mentorship and support for young men, addressing contemporary challenges and preparing them for life with a foundation of faith and discipline.
This ongoing disagreement reflects a broader societal tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to modern influences and religious practices. Many families in Kiambu face the difficult decision of navigating these differing perspectives as they seek the best path for their sons’ development and integration into adulthood.
On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Kiambu County Kiama Kia Ma chairman Elder Shamte Munyua reiterated that churches should keep off the boys’ rite of passage.
”We have said it before and we are repeating it that churches should stick to their lane. That is spreading the gospel and leave circumcision of the boys to elders,” he said at Ruaka, Kiambaa Sub-County.
And in a move likely to place Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi in a collision course with the clergy, a delegation of Kiama Kia Ma led by its patron, Captain (Rtd) Kùngu Muigai, on Wednesday received foodstuff to support the circumcision exercise across the county.
Addressing the delegation, which comprised representatives from all the 12 sub-counties in the county, Wamatangi urged the elders to continue prevailing upon the initiates to keep off drugs and alcohol abuse.
”I encourage you to continue guiding the initiates away from alcohol and drug abuse, which have become increasingly prevalent among the youth,” he said.
