Favourite LIFE
CHANGING
EXPERIENCE
| J U LY- S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8
THE
7th EDITION | KSH 300
JOYCE WANJIKU
Thorns Of Victory: surviving Domestic Pains
JOHNSON MWAKAZI
The Golden Voice Booming Echoes Of Inspiration
ANTHONY GITONGA Escaping a hell hole
BEAUTY Having A Flat Tummy
HEALTH Keeping The Cold At Bay
YOUTH WITH A FUTURE
EDITORIAL
2 | The Favourite
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CONTENTS
The Favourite Magazine | Issue 7
6 20-22 Escaping a hell hole
Feedback
8-12
JOHNSON MWAKAZI
26
KEEPING THE COLD AT BAY
13-14
SERIES TWO: THE STORY OF GOA
15-18
Thorns of Victory
Surviving Domestic Pains
Youth with a future
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24
EDITORIAL
Torrential Lessons
It hit us. It came in unprecedented volumes. It rained non stop and with it came tragedies. The long rains this year brought loss to all corners of our nation. There were massive floods, drownings, landslides and related challenges. We felt helpless in the face of a non -compromising nature that was teaching us lessons we won't forget in a long while. At what point did the rain start beating us? Where did we lose our grip as custodians of a bountiful earth we had been commissioned to tend and keep? When did our omissions come back to haunt us? Thus as we mourned and bemoaned our rainy discomforts, a truth hit home. The natural waterways have been blocked by stone edifices that house our materialistic desires. The trees that hold the soil together have been hauled away with no replacements. The ozone layer has become choked with our polluted activities such that climate change and global warming are no longer theoretical buzz words in UN meetings. In our haste to reach the zenith of our aspirations, we have forgotten to plan for the future and so prepare adequately. But it isn't only in rain matters that things have gone away. As we listen to daily events, the domestic front is full of horrifying killings and violence. The public institutions are reeling under massive corruption. The populace are increasingly skeptical and bitter. However, you and I can change these murky waters. Our task is to be more pro-active, hold ourselves to higher values, do our bit, appreciate our lives and what God has provided for us and live each day in its full richness.
Suzie Editor in chief
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FEEDBACK
Disclaimer
The Favourite Magazine is a publication of Favourite Suzie Enterprises. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited, while every care is taken in preparation of favourite magazine. The publisher cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information held herein or any consequences arising from it. All photographs taken are assumed to for publishing in the magazine and the publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.
6 | The Favourite
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Executive editor Suzie
Susannjau3@gmail.com
Suzie, The Favourite articles are inspiring by revealing the personality and steps behind achievers.The layout and photos are also amazing.Keep up! Karanja Mwangi Nairobi
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Inspiring Lives
The Golden Voice Booming Echoes Of Inspiration By Suzie
8 | The Favourite
Inspiring Lives
The media has become our shadow and whenever we are, we find ourselves dealing with one form of media or another. It is Jim Rohn who stated that “You don’t get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring to the hour”. In the media world, as seconds tick, one must invest all their worth for quality to match the limited time. As a prominent media personality, Johnson Mwakazi knows this too well. When chance presented itself in front of TV cameras, he added value to his hour and he was able to cut his niche. Whenever you are feeling poetic and you dorn your earphones to listen to some lyrics, the words of ‘Desderata’ lull your pressured self to a point of tranquility. The recitation of a poem on ‘Love lessons’, it hurts to love someone and not to be loved in return but what is more painful in to love someone and never find the courage to let that person know how you feel……”, leaves you yearning for more. Apart from the powerful words, the voice resonates deep into your being never to be forgotten. That is the power of a powerful voice and in comes Mwakazi.
Mwakazi was not born with the proverbial silver spoon. In American slang, he would be termed the ghetto kid but in Kenya, this translates to Kibra, Makina with all its challenges of inadequate housing, the populace back to back in its neighbourliness and cockroaches, rats, flies, rain leading to dampness, drugs, all being summed up in the phrase: a tough upbringing. His life reflects the wisdom that we should never let the things we cannot have or don’t have, spoil our enjoyment of the things we do have and can have. One resource he got was education. So he attended Kichinjio nursery, Kibera Primary School, Jamhuri high school and Daystar University. The fact that education is an equalizer is a great testament in his life. The other resource was a family that has been a wonderful blessing. He grew up in a family of seven as the last born and he describes them as awesome. Despite his mother having a rough patch in marriage leading to a separation and a relocation to Nairobi, life went on. What is unique is the role of the mother in veering young Mwakazi towards God. She attended Sunday worship at St. Andrews church and though young and impressionable Mwakazi became aware that this world has status quo, it really didn’t him down. He realized that others were rich spoke good English and dressed better. But back in the hood, it really didn’t matter since slum life makes you take life as it is with everyone around you living same way of course, self doubts would creep in and he realizes the power of God who salvaged him from the dark side of this predicament and has been with him this far. Growing up is a process and he dabbled with smoking, drinking, partying, movies but thankfully it never became a way of life. One remarkable thing is that he never slept in the streets. Again he never got sucked in, in vices like child molestation. In retrospect, he realizes the problem was real even in his past though not as defined as it is today. He recalls an incident during play when the boys congregated in a corner at dusk and the small boys were being instructed to bend over by the big ones. Fortunately someone
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Inspiring Lives
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Inspiring Lives passed by and questioned on the going-ons and everyone scampered. He shudders to think what would have transpired especially in the background of harrowing tales of sodomy these days even of college students becoming victims as they are housed by ‘friends’. So, did the journalism bug grow with him? He ponders over this and states that the journalism story was alien to him in the early years. At standard three he made a personal declaration to his teacher that when he grew up, he would be a pastor. Then came standard eight and the teacher asked the question in class. The top student confidently said he would be a journalist. Mwakazi was flabbergasted by this strange term but he thought it must be the intelligent thing to say, so he told the class he aspired to be a journalist. Truth was, he knew next to nothing what it was all about. In Form 1, the story replayed itself and he stuck to journalism and his ignorance of it. However, after Form four, he stayed with his sister who was a school teacher. He greatly admired her and valued how she communicated with her students. This dear sister encouraged him in the line of journalism. She had seen something in him that he himself was not aware of. In Kenya, the reality of life hits home after form four and thus the Kenyan term, hassling. Mwakazi’s mother could not afford his college fees and he tried a few things one of them being acting. It was during this period that he interacted with a trainer from Worcester University who introduced them to media. As he got exposure to the media operations, Head of Radio Jimmy Gathu was present during practice and he requested that he calls him. Opportunity had come calling and his voice among other qualifies landed him a job in Hot 96 radio. He worked with them for two years and had a keen interest on what went on. The day came when the Editorial Director Citizen TV called him for a trial in TV on a Saturday. By Monday he was live on TV and his life has never been the same again. His work ethics can be paralled to John Stanko’s advice to his readers, “Excellence is doing all you do from
a right heart and in a manner worthy of God.” As his star rose his mentor advised that he should not sit on his laurels of audience acceptance, rather he should seek excellence and since he had talent and practical experience, the next step was training. So he went to Daystar University for Media Studies. An individual goes through various phases in life and thus he is now a married man. His wife has become a pillar, a heroine. She inspires him for her resilience, commitment and love for God. They met at Daystar University and were in CU. mission work together. She was studying PR. She did her work with diligence. He was the CU chairperson and at one time was tied with work and couldn’t go for a mission. She went as his representative and the following day a well presented summary was on his desk. This opened a door for more meetings with her and eight years after their wedding, he counts himself lucky for the gift of a wife and mother to his children. He almost lost her during the first delivery and he values their lives even more. She really fought for her life.
events organization, voice training and documentaries. - Works with an International organization based in Switzerland and works on developmental issues in Kenya, S. Sudan and S. Africa. At Kibra, they have a Waste Material Management Program and erecting solar power structures. He hopes to work with all counties to embrace this project.
What breaks your heart?
“Considering that God has invested greatly in my life, it would break my heart if I didn’t take care of what He gave me. If I failed to Honour God”
How do you spend your leisure time?
Taking a quiet time alone to soak in the presence of God. listening to Him. Meditation.
Do you believe in love at first sight?
Well, it depends. It depends on perspective. When thinking of Eros, attraction does happen, anywhere, in a classroom or even a bus station. But knowing Agape love, it’s a fallacy. True love must be tested, love is patient and kind. So mere Most influential people in your attraction without commitment life? results in heartbreaks, single parents, They vary. At one point I was inspired orphaned children. Question is, are by key journalists from BBC and CNN you able to take it all the way. and some movie stars. My awesome family for the bond we share. My wife What will you be doing five years is best inspiration. from now? Doing something for my country What inspires you apart from Kenya from the developmental point of view. Help counties to money? work strategies that will make them - Serving people using God gifted attractive to investors. Replicate the skills. Kibra waste management project in - Working as a team to start other counties. something new like the WTV - Celebrating what is good in a What keeps you going? community and talking with The mere realization of how good people. God has been to me. He gave me a What are you currently involved good voice, opportunity and good training. When preparation and in? opportunity meet, there is success, - Mentorship exposure and expansion. The quest - Personal engagement in a to help others raise their voices for family company started with I belief you only become the best my wife 10 years ago. Royal because of the many voices behind Voice International focuses on you. development helping individuals and companies realize their potential through media training,
Quick Ones with Mwakazi
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Inspiring Lives
Your message to young people?
Learn to number your days in order to get value and wisdom. Learn from others and let God always be central in your life. Your youth is your greatest asset-you’re young, strong and talented. Live your life fully but rightly so.
Parting shot?
Human life is limited but each of us has a unique gift we can use to make the world better. As we light our candles let us light other peoples’ candles too and use these opportunities well before our own candles fade out. Wow, I couldn’t believe the interview time was over. Johnson Mwakazi is simply an awesome individual who came out as focused, well organized and deeply spiritual. As we sat in the serene environment of our Karen location, the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, the green lawns and wonderful trees were made more magical by the chirpy birds. That’s the point one reflects deeply on the words of the great hymn come to mind: when through the woods and forest glades I wander/And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees/when I look down from lofty mountain grandeur/And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze/ Then sings my soul …… Don’t you then feel we should join hands to do and seek the best in humanity?
12 | The Favourite
Real life
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Impacting Society
SERIES TWO:
THE STORY OF GOA By Suzie
Pursuing The Great Commission
Every Kenyan heard the story of a white Christian nun who served the locals in Nyeri many years ago and they endowed her with a nickname Nyatha (Sister Stephani). This Gikuyu term means the merciful one. So, what is your take on compassion? The dictionary defines it as a strong feeling of sympathy for people who are suffering and a desire to help them. What is your response to the Christian call to love your neighbor as yourself? Are you executing your Christian duties compassionately? What will your legacy be in this area? As we reflect on compassion, in comes the story of GOA – Glory Outreach Assembly. This is a vibrant movement that is advancing the kingdom of God and reaching the lost with the gospel In the world. As explained in our last issue, GOA began in 1991 under Bishop David Thagana. The GOA family is guided by four ministry fields: Church Growth, compassion, conflict Resolution and Leadership 14 | The Favourite
Development . In this respect, GOA’S diversity of ministry provides a range of opportunities for anyone who wants to make a difference by touching and transforming individual lives. It is a ministry where everybody is somebody and Jesus is Lord. We live in a world where people are becoming more and more individualistic. No one seems to care anymore about human values that add quality to life. It is Claude Mckay (1889-1948) who stated that human dignity is more precious than prestige. But as we look around there is a lot of human suffering. This has resulted to many people losing their dignity. A person reduced to that level ends up bitter in their hopelessness and life becomes one vicious cycle. GOA noted this gap and believes that all human beings are God’s children and they have a right to live a dignified life. In their quest they established their first children’s home in Karima village in 2001. This one home has expanded to many others that cater for the needs of the orphaned, the homeless, the marginalized and those affected
and infected with HIV/AIDS. Bishop David Thagana and his wife oversee their smooth running. At the helm of GOA leadership, the Bishop shared the following information GOA seeks to integrate all their core values in ministry. 1. Embrace people : We believe all people are made in Gods image so we treat all people as his children while fulfilling the great commission-making Christian disciples. 2. Compassionately serve: Jesus has given us the model of caring for the poor and suffering, which we strive to follow to the best of our abilities. 3. Pursue Peace: We strive to bring an end to conflict in our communities. 4. Embody Godly leadership: practice ethical and accountable governance and management, while serving our ministries with excellence.
Impacting Society
COMPASSION: We envision a ministry that intentionally commits to the value, dignity and integrity of every person by focusing on the neediest members of our communities. We seek to establish improvement in the quality of life of those at the greatest risk in our communities, especially children, the homeless and those impacted by HIV-AIDs. We are happy that the lord has been so gracious to us and has enabled us to care for 481 children i.e. feeding, education, shelter. We have been able to establish 8 children's homes in Kenya, 1. Tumaini children home-Kinangop 2. Strong Tower children homeNaivasha 3 .Beat the Drum Children homeMaimahiu 4. Rhema Kinangop Children home
Ndunyu Njeru-Kinangop 5. Rehema Girls Children Home Nyahururu 6 Kieni West Children home MuigaNyeri 7. GOA Christ Compassion HomeJoska 8. GOA Ebenezar Children Home Tharaka
schools in different areas namely:-
Our clients benefit by having improved life skills including, health, nutrition, literacy, civic responsibility and family life management. Improved life skills are being practised in our homes by the children who are growing mentally, academically and in stature. They have been taking part in the national examinations that are being conducted annually in class 8 for primary and in Form IV for high school. God has helped us establish
We have 61 children in public universities colleges we thank God that they shall be responsiblecitizens in future. In everyday interactions, there are many we encounter that have great problems but we may not be aware of their predicament. A listening ear and an act of compassion can change the situation creating a ripple effect of transformation. These can be exemplified by the story of an individual who got a listening ear at GOA and is today a living testimony.
1. GOA Education center Kinangop 2. GOA Education Centre Kahawa Wendani-Nairobi 3. Maggie School-Lowdwar 4. Nabwelpus Primary-Lowdwar 5. GOA High School-Kinangop 6. Naotin Adult Education- Lodwar
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Real Life
Thorns of Victory Surviving Domestic Pains
Joyce Wanjiku Kariuki was born to Christian parents in Nyandarua County, Kinangop. She is the third born of six siblings. After primary school she joined Secondary school with the intention of achieving the best in life. She hoped to be a journalist. In the intervening years while in Form 3, she forged a friendship and even introduced the young Christian man to his parents. His fiancé agreed to wait for her to complete form 4 then they would get married. However in form 4, her parent sent her to him to collect school fees and she got married that very day thus a Form 4 drop-out. Her marriage however underwent trying moments in the four years they were together between 20052009. They were blessed with two boys, Brian Kariuki and Samuel Kimani; Joyce had hoped to establish 16 | The Favourite
a stable God fearing family unit. They would actually pray together and read the word of God. Like any other family starting off, they were faced with financial difficulties. Her husband was a driver and Joyce set up a food kiosk in their locality. But as time went on, it became a bone of contention. The rows made life difficult for her but when she shared with a few like her mother, they urged her to persevere. She recalls many harrowing incidences that signified a violent partner. One day while operating her food kiosk, her husband bought her an axe and he told her it was for splitting firewood to ease her work. She thought it a generous gesture seeing that he would even bring her firewood at times. But one day, he accused her of prostitution and claimed that male friends would
access her at the kiosk. This led to Joyce closing down the food Kiosk but this didn’t solve the problem. One night he took the axe and threatened to kill her. He informed her he had bought the axe purposely to murder her. He asked her to leave and she packed at 10:00 p.m but after he calmed down, he prevailed upon her to stay. Another instance was during her father’s burial when he confronted her and demanded for the house keys. The family members were just getting ready to go to the front to be prayed for. He asked her never to go back to his home. This caused her so much turmoil and when people saw her break down, they thought it was the grief of the death. It was a double tragedy. She stayed on after the burial and had no heart to share with anyone. When her mother
Real life from Mombasa where he had gotten a job. She had no idea of Nairobi leave alone Mombasa but she managed to travel there from Njabini. They reconciled but the cycle repeated itself again when he lost his job. They even slept hungry and she shudders to think of the two months of great suffering and the culmination of another major row. One day her husband came home and had Kshs.1,000. She felt it was a miracle only to be accused of prostitution and given the money to go back home. She sought the help from their church elder but it was never resolved. Back in her mother’s house after many other rows and separations she decided to settle and did casual jobs in other people’s shambas. Harvesting potatoes and French beans was quite tough but she was asked, she told her she wanted to determined to feed her children now keep her company and that was two. She was so desperate that one what everyone around thought. night she stole someone’s old gate Deep in her heart she was deeply to split for firewood to cook for her troubled. She had an idea of what had children. She got a job as a packer triggered this scene. There had been in a shop but it never lasted as she mention of an illicit relationship with was wrongfully accused of stealing a relative, him and a cousin of hers, goods and dismissed. She eventually and an aunt had questioned him. But talked with her mother that she after two weeks her husband came moves to Ndunyu Njeru to work in to her home and they had gone back Floride Hotel for 100/= per day from to their home to continue with their 5:00 a.m till late in the evening. Her troubled marriage. mother took care of her children Yet another violent scene occurred in and one of them had difficulties the middle of the night at a time they walking. Later she got a job to take were in a financial crisis. They really care of an elderly person but when couldn’t afford Kshs.2.50 for water. her mother called her with news That night there was hardly any that her child had finally learnt to water but she requested him to use walk, she left her job and went back the little available water to bathe in home, and back to the Hotel. Around the morning. They read the bible and this time, her husband came home slept. She awoke to violent shaking and asked for his two children. The as her hair was brutally pulled. It day she took the children to him, was raining heavily and in her deep the already tragic story turned to its sleep hadn’t realized it. The husband worst climax. A customer from the accused her of being irresponsible hotel called her that evening and and letting the rain water go to her husband took her phone and waste. He beat her up with the the number of the caller. He sent belt-buckle but she never cried out the caller an abusive text and this as she didn’t wish to hang her dirty triggered an exchange between the linen in public. She was threatened two men. Joyce insists nothing was with death and this was actually the going on between her and the caller beginning of many separations. At but her husband could hear none of that time she only had one baby and it. She was really beaten that night when she went back home people and by the time she went home she thought she was there for her sister’s could hardly walk. Her husband came wedding. home with demands and told her After a while her husband called grandmother and village elder that
if he never got his children and his wife, there would be consequences. That culminated in Joyce being arrested and taken to Engineer Police Station and booked until the accused (the man who had called her was found). The man was not found and she languished in the cells in deep pain from Monday to Wednesday evening. Her husband had recorded a statement on the abusive text. Fortunately on Wednesday as her mom visited, she got a chance to meet the OCS and gave her story. She was released. Back home, everyone stigmatized her and she could hardly leave the house. This trauma saw her move to Nairobi West as a house girl and attended Full Gospel Church Zimmerman. On the way she would see a GOA
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Real Life signpost and having known Rev. Joyce, the Bishop’s wife from back home, she decided to go there. While there she got a chance to talk to the Bishop and shared her story. After this she felt like it had been wrong to give her details since the Bishop had only commented, ‘’we’ll know what to do”. Things however looked up when she received a text message and the Bishop informed her of a job opening. That is how the Bishop and his wife employed her as a house help at their home with a better pay. He requested her to complete composing her songs and when ready, he would help to record the album. Thus her musical journey as a gospel singer began. After being assisted with her 1st album, she sold the CDs and stopped being a house girl. She got a one roomed house and even managed to release her 2nd album “Niwaciama” – God is a God of miracles. Her life was finally looking up. She got the children from the mother and started living with them. She will forever be thankful to her mother for helping her out in this difficult period. Being an active church member, the Bishop noted her commitment and he made her the Resident Pastor in fulltime ministry at KahawaWendani GOA Church. This was a big surprise but she was ready to serve the Lord. She has brought up her two children and has taken in orphaned children.
Highlights on Joyce
1. Hobbies -Going out with her children where they can play, singing, anything to make her laugh. 2. Holiday Destination – Abroad US/Switzerland 3. Bitterness – None, she has healed and moved on 9 years later after troubled marriage 4. Re-marriage – Not it the foreseeable future. She still has fear so doesn’t think about it. 5. Her outlook – Anyone meeting her finds a beautiful , Godfearing stable lady. She is jovial.
As I winded this interview with Joyce, I felt rejuvenated and hopeful. It is thus evident the role GOA is playing in people’s lives. Giving 18 | The Favourite
them the spiritual nourishment and helping out in other dimensions of individuals’ lives in order to make them wholesome. Thus the words of Deutromony 23:5 ‘that the Lord your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you’ The story of GOA'S Mission work continues in our next issue. To get involved in GOA compassion ministries contact:
0727 407 247 / 0723 936 987
Our Services Public Address system (i.e. Speakers, Microphones, DJ Equipment) Emceeing ( Jeff Kuria, Kamau Karongo) Disk Jockey (DJs) ( DJ Enzyme, Vdj Clyde) Musicians / Artists all kinds, bands and dancers Lighting i.e LED lights LED Screens Projectors Stages
Corporate event planning & coordination services Wedding planning & coordination services Anniversaries Birthday parties Wedding planning Flower delivery & maintenance Product launches Event decor services Studio & Event Photography Interior home & office decor
Office F-02, Kipro Center, Cross RZoad,Westlands , Next to Parklands Baptist Church. Cell: 0777668574 | 0728 668 574 www.haflaevents.co.ke The Favourite | 19
Make it happen
Escaping a hell hole: Seeking the throne
The Redemption of Anthony Gitonga By Suzie
A criminal is an individual who commits a crime. Though criminal activities are as old as humanity, crime has evolved and even become more prevalent. So, as you go about your daily activities how do you tell a criminal from the law-abiding citizens. It is Hugo who stated that if you open a school gate, you close the doors of prison. But what if that criminal still lurks within the confines of a school? What if that schemer dons the school uniform and answers to the roll call at just the right times? What if that scheming hijacker is an innocent school boy who does his school work excellently? And more disturbing, what if that hardened criminal is your baby, still in his formative years with a future ahead of him? Meet Anto formally known as Anthony Gitonga Muthoga. His hood Eastlands, specifically Maringo, 20 | The Favourite
offered him a home and diversity in terms of social halls, library and fellow estate pals. It has been drummed into all of us that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. So, Anthony found his interest in boxing. All through his childhood he favoured adult company and he felt that boxing was cool. At the social hall, he fully became involved in the sport put together as a gang of boys under 11. This was in standard two. He would participate in tournaments involving both adults and children. Unfortunately being around adult company had its drawbacks. The wrong things rubbed off on him gradually. The older lot had many vices like stealing and doing drugs. Young Anto however thought it a privilege to be among the choosen two children who could walk the ‘cool’ older lot. Being over 18, this group had a room of their own and
Anthony would go there severally. The fellows would drink and smoke but he never thought much about it. One day he was given a paperbag full of items and asked to sort out the valuable things. There were phones, watches, rings, bangles, all indicators of stolen loot. That was his first experience as a member of a criminal gang and his reward was a bangle which made him feel good that he had something other boys didn’t have. Eventually as he earned their trust, he was assigned other roles. By this time the gang had moved to a two bedroomed house. Anthony graduated to higher levels of criminal activities without the knowledge of his family. The mother always found a dutiful son at home cooking, cleaning the utensils and minding the others. At school he was always at the top of his class. He was shrewd enough to cover his
Make it Happen tracks by being a good obedient boy in the eyes of the adults around him. He could even play around with the clock and change the time backwards so that it would cover his time out and the mother wasn’t the wiser. By standard 3 he could drive a vehicle and participate in team operations. Gradually he was on drugs. The consequences of crime reared its head when he was in standard four when one of the gang members was shot. He became aware that death lurked at every corner from a police bullet or mob justice. The gang had rules. You had to be smart always, don’t steal from your locality and don’t engage in petty theft. They dealt with big cash. As members died, others filled in the gaps in terms of gang leadership. His first major job was in Lang’ata in a carjacking of a matatu at end month. Despite being in class four he was now a hardened criminal playing an active role in any assignment. Time research, coordination and team play were vital skills. Covering yourselves meant using lots of coded language for example someone stating: Peter, Kuja, Peter enda meant pita uende (pass the stolen items elsewhere) Simo would be the short form of Simon but to them it meant – hatujamaliza kazi. Non-verbal communication plays a vital role in how thugs communicate. In class 6, he was transferred to boarding school. This did not put a stop to his activities. He was a smooth operator who would sneak out right under the school authorities watch. He would make sure everyone has seen him in the right places like class, dining hall and dorm, by bedtime, his bed would have a decoy. He would make sure everyone can see he is asleep only that these would be clothes arranged under the blankets. This would be for night operations. By morning, he would wake up early with all the other students. As more senior members died, he rose up in rank. The contracts kept coming in including kidnappings, raping, taking important documents from houses, and the usual carjackings. Cash was flowing as jobs called for down payment and cash payments. This would all be wasted on drinking, good clothes thus
nothing helpful at all. By class 8, he had his own crew, the G-Squad. They would engage in gang fights with other gangs from other estates and his was really held in high esteem. In secondary, his gang members were drawn from other secondary schools from Nairobi, Thika and Embu. He never recruited anyone from his own school for fear of being discovered. Between 2008 – 2011, he executed many crimes and he had many contacts who helped him directly or indirectly. He would use family members of victims to get vital information, use children of senior people to get favours and so on. For example to access, gang members in the cells, he had a girl, who was a daughter of a senior police woman in Nairobi. As a friend then, he could access the police stations and smuggle in things without suspicion. The sneaking intensified in secondary school but his academic performance remained at the top. Every relationship had to be beneficial. His turning point came in form 4 through a mutual friend who kept talking to him about the word of God. He was indifferent. He thought those who go to church are brainwashed so he never paid much attention. But his The Favourite | 21
Make it happen
Jeremiah 32:27 asks,
“ I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” This is a fact Anthony can attest to as he recalls his last job and his turn around. A businessman contracted his gang to kidnap a child. The crew of seven started preparations in earnest. They researched and knew their roles like clock- work. By this time he had completed Form 4 and had an ID. The downpayment – lots of cash- was already in their hands. That night they assembled on Thika road enroute to Kiambu County, their destination, in a home upstairs in a gated community. The exercise was to take a few minutes at exactly 1:00p.m.
Something was amiss. They started quarrelling from the word go, something that had never happened before. They started arguing and teamwork failed. On arrival at the home, the watchman never left the gate yet it had been established that friend never gave up. The two made every night at that hour, he would a deal that Anthony would go to his be away from his duty station. They friend’s church and meet his pastor drove off to re-strategize and plan on condition that the pastor would B was to get a call girl to come over tell him something about him that and disorient the watchman and he didn’t know already, something drug him. They quarreled over this, truthful. They called the pastor so it never happened. They checked and though they had never met, the boot for their work tools but lo the pastor called him by name. For Anthony the conclusion was that his and behold nothing was there and friend had informed him prior to the they had to drive to a bar in Nairobi where they stored their things. With call. The preacher then added that money in their pockets they started Anthony’s mother was sick and had a drinking spree from an estate to gone for treatment at Kenyatta. He town centre. Drinking during a job was shocked and it actually turned out to be true though at that time he was not allowed, hard drugs yes didn’t know of the mother’s sickness but nothing else. Another strange thing was tyre burst despite each since he was in school. He made vehicle in a job going for servicing an appointment with the preacher just before that day. Anthony thought and one day he went to the church. these sequences abnormal and he He hadn’t met him before and was reflected on God for the first time surprised to find he was young, in his life. They had agreed to go simple and humble. They chatted back at 5:00a.m to kidnap the child and he welcomed him to be coming but the drinking had only left Kshs. to church. However, he was still 10,000 in their pockets and nobody rebellious and would only appear once in a blue moon. But the man-of- seemed bothered anymore. He made a decision there and then. He went God never gave up on him and kept back home on foot and he has never encouraging him over the phone, looked back. He threw away his he extolled him to change. The lure phone and started afresh. of the world was too great since the The preacher has been a pillar money was coming in steadily. of strength in his transformation journey. He counselled him gradually, accommodated him and helped 22 | The Favourite
him change. The addiction was a challenge but with time he overcame it. Anthony is today a transformed young man who knows too well the weight and importance of the words in Luke 4:8. And Jesus answered him, “ Get behind me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve!’ Anthony is externally grateful to Mtumishi Henry for holding his hand and leading him to God. Ten things you need to know about Anthony. 1.
Has never gone back to crime since 2012 2. As a criminal he worked with a variety of individuals to bring a job to completion like touts, drivers, informants in institutions and families and his crew members. 3. He led a dangerous life that saw his accomplices die. God saved him by special grace 4. He attended Chania Boys Secondary School 5. He studied IT at KU but never completed 6. All through his criminal activities, he put up a front and those around him never knew what he was up to. 7. He is now an artiste and a manager 8. He is now DJ Freestyle Kenya and an entrepreneur in transport and hotel business 9. Is single 10. Greatest advice; Don’t dabble in crime . Everything has a price. Make the best choices in life. This interview was very moving and quite incredible to see this young man in front of me who had been engaged in such dangerous deals but became transformed. He got Mtumishi Henry to hold his hand at Jerusalem Centre of worship Ministries and Anthony is currently a committed Christian who talks to criminals to change. The sumptuous lunch was the icing in the cake of this great story. I learnt the moral, "Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant.” (Robert Louis Stevenson). So all of us should plant the right seeds to eradicate crime.
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Youth and Life
YOUTH WITH A FUTURE
phase which like all good things, soon passes us by. With this in mind , every young person should purpose “Whatever is true, whatever is to make good use of their youth so honourable, whatever is just, that today and tomorrow may be whatever is pure, whatever is both meaningful and worthwhile. lovely, whatever is gracious, Many a times, majority of young people get lost during this period if there’s anything worthy and mess up an otherwise good life. of praise, think about these As challenges increase as we get out things.” of our childhood comfort, the future Anyone who has read the remarkable becomes a blur, especially since there story of Ben Carson in Think Big or is a lot of negativity doing rounds Gifted Hands will have read about these days. Reflect on the opening Johns Hopkins University Medical words that the Apostle Paul wrote to school. This is a place well known the Philippians. If as a young person in the world for its contribution in you just choose to live right, do what the medical field and our world’s is right and concentrate on what is well being. It wasn’t always there. positive in this world , all will be well However, in 1871, Sir William Osler, with you. who was at that time a young medical Rudyard Kipling (1865 -1936 wrote a student in Montreal read the words famous poem and stated many ifs of of Thomas Carlyle in a book. Those positive choices contrasted with all 21 words changed his life. He was the things that can go wrong in life. just about to complete his studies He opens with the exhortation: and this kind of threshold into the “If you can keep your head when unknown future can leave any young all about you are losing theirs and person in a crisis zone. But the words blaming it on you….” And ends had such an impact that eventually strongly with the promise “…… Yours saw Thomas rise and become the is the earth and everything that’s architect and organizer of this in it, and which is more, you’ll be a amazing medical centre re-known man, my son!” Every young person the world over. He subsequently would and must want’ to be a man received the highest medical honours or woman of integrity, worth and of the British Empire and was great influence. It all boils down to knighted by the King of England. the choices you are making this very 147 years later in 2018 dear youth I minute. wish to share those 21 words: Our main business is not to see what lies A story is told of the fish who in dimly at a distance but to do what lies olden days lived on earth (dry land) clearly at hand. and often saw water passing by Youth is a golden age, a time of pretty fast and requested that they tremendous opportunities, a period be friends. Fish had everything he of exuberant grace, a transitory ever wanted but thought water By Menta T. The bible tells us in Phillipians 4:8
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had more power. Water gave him a condition . If they became friends, he had to leave everything behind and live in the water and that way, water would stand by him always. Fish jumped in happily and lived in the water. All was well. He was sheltered in there and could play all day long and there were lots to eat too. One day, fish was caught in a net by fishermen and he cried out to his friend water who told him to just hold on since he would not desert him. The fishermen took the fish and cleaned him with water. A woman came by and bought the fish and took him home. As he was prepared as food he once again cried out to water to save him. Water gave his assurance and the woman took a little water and added to the fish stew as it cooked. On the dining table, the eventuality of being eaten came by and fish again cried out to his friend water. The man of the home eating the fish took water in a glass and sipped some as his meal came to an end. Fish was no more. The swiftness of water that had so enamoured fish could not salvage fish eventually. Dear youth, are you so taken in by the swiftness of this world and its lure that you want quick fixes? You take drugs to get high. You get caught up in negative peer influence just to belong and be recognized by your peers. You get so awed by the fancy gizmos that are being manufactured everyday. Just know you have a future. All you need to do is appreciate the wisdom in the 21 words we have talked about and use your today really really well. ADIEU.
Beauty
HAVING A FLAT TUMMY As we get on in years, we tend to collect belly fat from our lifestyles and body types whether male or female, a bulging tummy becomes an issue in relation to our looks and our dressing. Our clothes become too tight so we want to shed that fat and flatten out. So how do we go about it? • Do a lifestyle audit A lot of the problems we are encountering today with our bodies boil down to our lifestyles. Analyze how you are living and make the necessary changes. • Reduce sugar intake Sugar contains fructose so we should regulate its intake. Too much sugar has been associated
with heart disease, obesity and fatty engaging in positive activities and liver disease among others. Opt for dealing with challenges in a more natural sugars like honey to avoid too practical way. much accumulation of belly fat. • Eat Healthy • Say no to alcohol Go for wholesome foods and keep Alcohol has too many demerits so off refined processed foods. Prepare simply steer away from it. Long gone your food with coconut oil which are the days when those pot bellies boosts metabolism. Take fatty fish and beer indulgences were a status every week which are rich in protein symbol. Alcohol will simply trigger and Omega 3 like Salmon, herrings, accumulation of belly fat in very sardines, mackerel and anchovies. many ways. • Exercise • Reduce stress Various exercises will aid you in Today’s life has many stressors and your journey at reducing tummy fat. in response, our bodies have a stress Take walks, lift weights, do sit ups, hormone (cortisol) produced by side pranks, crunches among others. adrenal glands. For many individuals But do not overdo it, just integrate it heightens the appetite and them as part of your daily schedule subsequently one eats too much seek professional guidance in your leading to belly fat storage. The good exercise schedule for best results. news is that we can learn to manage Keep exercising to tuck in your stress and decide to be happy by tummy. The Favourite | 25
Health & Nutrition
A HEALTHY YOU
KEEPING THE COLD AT BAY By Hilda
The human body is susceptible to weather changes. The current cold spell has affected many resulting in medical challenges the most threatening being pneumonia. As the chill sets in, we feel tempted to stay indoors round fires or under our blankets or worse still wear unbecoming coats, sweaters and shawls to feel warm. The good news is that you can go about your daily routine happily and fashionable by learning the art of layering to keep warm. Layering involves putting clothes from the inner to the outer levels when considering comfort and how the various garments complement each other. 26 | The Favourite
Inner –most layer This includes undershirts tights or leggings and thick socks. It is Important to consider the material which is light, warm and can keep you dry throughout the day. The items should not be too thick to create discomfort. Middle layer This layer consists of your main outfit. They should be light enough not to create a bulge but thick enough to give warmth. The clothes should be easy to remove. A shirt can have buttons or be easy to pull over the head. A dress or skirt will give you femininity. The pants should be warm enough and practical for your engagements that day. A sweatshirt
over a shirt can give a casual look and a cardigan or light sweater over a blouse can add elegance to your look. Consider the materials that will be warm but practical like fleece wool, flannel, jeans or corduroy. Outer layer Whatever you wear on top of all your other clothes should be comfortable enough and easy enough to remove should the weather become warmer. In case of a down pour, they should also be water resistant. The outer layer will include heavy coats, warm scarves, gloves, hats and boots. Whatever you choose should look good on you in order to complement your looks.
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