This archive report was first published on 1 September 2019.
Funerals in Kenya: A Call for Change ¶
As Governor of Makueni County, I have witnessed firsthand the complexities and challenges surrounding funerals in Kenya. The recent cremation of Ken Okoth, a Member of Parliament, sparked a national conversation about the need to reform our funeral practices.
Kenya's funeral culture is marked by controversy, with many deaths marred by disputes over burial rights, exhumation, and reburial. The Ethiopian Airlines crash, which resulted in the deaths of all passengers, highlighted the challenges of handling mass burials. In some cases, relatives have even advocated for the burial of a banana stem instead of their loved one's body.
Traditionally, the nucleus family is informed of the deceased's passing first, and they are often visited at their home. However, the funeral expenses are usually borne by the community, with neighbors and friends contributing to the costs. In some cases, funeral associations and burial committees are formed to raise funds and coordinate logistics.
But funerals have become increasingly politicized, with politicians often dominating the proceedings and using the opportunity to promote their interests. This has led to the commercialization of funerals, with traders selling goods adjacent to the burial site and young people playing secular music during the mourning period.
Christian funerals, in particular, have become a platform for evangelism, with clergy using the opportunity to make an altar call and target the living rather than the dead. Muslim burials and Hindu cremations, on the other hand, are often conducted in a simple and cost-effective manner.
However, the current system has its drawbacks. Many people are unable to afford funeral expenses, and dead bodies are often detained in hospitals due to non-payment of bills. A national solution is needed to address this issue and ensure that all citizens have access to dignified funeral services.
As a society, we must rethink our approach to funerals and prioritize dignity, respect, and compassion. We must depoliticize funerals and allow the clergy to take full control of the sacred funeral service. By doing so, we can create a more meaningful and respectful way of honoring the dead and supporting their loved ones.
