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Valentine Day treat in Mathare slums


Residents of Mlango Kubwa in Mathare, Nairobi, were on Monday treated to a special Valentines Day treat by one of their own.

In a setting decorated with the Valentine theme of red and white balloons, 200 men and women, most of whom are elderly, were treated to a sumptuous meal and drinks before the celebrations were crowned with the cutting and feeding of a cake.

The initiative was organized by Elizabeth Waithera, a political aspirant gunning for area’s Member of County Assembly (MCA) seat in the August 2022 polls.

“Most of the elderly in our area sacrificed so much to see us grow but are rarely celebrated,” explained Waithera, a professional psychologist.

“What inspired me to organize this treat,” she adds, “is that in many of my home visits to the elderly, I realised old women are neglected by society. I thought it will be a fine idea if we shared a cake, meal and drinks, and have a hearty chat.”

“I’ve never celebrated Valentines before. I do not have a husband or children. We have never experienced such celebrations in Mathare. What Waithera has done has made me a very happy woman and feel loved,” said Esther Muthingu, 65.

Friday Nakowa, 60, added: “I’d never heard of Valentine’s Day but it looks like there is too much love and satisfaction with such events. Our leaders should plan and give us more of these treats.”

Waithera who will be contesting on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, has promised to vouch for healthcare, security and provision of learning equipment in the area if elected.