This archive report was first published on 27 June 2021.
On June 26, 2021, Taita-Taveta County bid farewell to its last World War II veteran, Mzee Herman Mwandighi, at his rural home in the scenic Lushangonyi village in Wundanyi.
As hundreds of local residents gathered to pay their respects, the event was marked by a mix of joy and sadness, with many considering Mzee Mwandighi an unsung hero due to his incredible feats and unparalleled exploits.
Born in 1920, Mzee Mwandighi attended Kabete Technical College in 1940 for a carpentry course before being recruited to join Her Majesty's Forces in 1941. He served in Abyssinia, modern-day Ethiopia, for four years before being honorably discharged on November 25, 1945, with the rank of sergeant.
During his life, Mzee Mwandighi was credited with building the first coffee factory in the region through his carpentry firm and was also hailed as the first man in the district to hoist the Kenyan flag at Wundanyi after the Union Jack was lowered.
Speakers during the burial ceremony praised Mzee Mwandighi's extraordinary life, terming it a hallmark of a man who had displayed true patriotism for his country.
Former Wundanyi MP Thomas Mwadeghu said Mzee Mwandighi had lived his life to the fullest and left behind a legacy characterized by a track record of development projects.
“He has left a legacy that everyone who knew him can be proud of,” Mwadeghu said, adding that Mzee Mwandighi's political acumen made him a much-sought-after figure, especially by local leaders who wanted advice.
Mr. Ephraim Kitimo, a retired Senior Chief and ex-army man, led other members of the Defense Forces Comrades Association (Defoca) in staging elaborate drills in honor of a fallen comrade.
“He was the last of the generation that fought in the Second World War,” said the ex-chief.
