I am happy to share yet another entry to the elder stories comics project commissioned by Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health (TICAH). The project aimed at interviewing elders from different parts of the country and showcasing the findings and wisdom through comics and sequential art.

Mzee Edward Kituyi was born in 1930 in Bungoma County, Western Kenya. His father was a herbalist, and he learnt a lot about the Luhya/Bukusu culture from him. Many times he would accompany his father in the forest as he went to collect herbs. Now retired, Mzee Kituyi spends most of his time on his farm. He is one of the few Bukusu knowledge bearers and ceremonialists. He is always happy to share the Luhya traditions he has learnt and witnessed over his long life.

MZEE’S MESSAGE FOR THE WORLD:

“Civilization has brought a lot of change to the world, but that should not be the license to lose our culture. Let’s speak our languages, keep our names, and keep practicing our beautiful cultures.”

Dreamkona, an initiative by TICAH is a network of Kenyan artists connecting across generations and practices, building health and community through public art and culture. Here is a link to find out more about the program.

Credits:

Project Manager (TICAH) - Suzanne Mieko

Studio: SirNare Animation Studios

Sketch/Pencils - Salim Busuru

Inks - Arnold Ouma/ Ian Muhanji

Colors & Lighting - Arnold Ouma

Creative Director - Kelvin Shani

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