This archive report was first published on 9 January 2020.
On January 3, 2020, Emma Wangechi, a centenarian from Nyeri County, celebrated her 100th birthday in style. Born at Gikondi village in Nyeri County, Ms Wangechi is a testament to the power of faith and determination.
According to family records, Ms Wangechi was born on January 3, 1920. Her family claims that she is one of the oldest women not just in Ichuga village in Nanyuki, but also in Kenya. While Nation could not independently verify her age, her remarkable story is a testament to her enduring spirit.
Ms Wangechi's faith has been a cornerstone of her life, and she attributes her longevity to her Catholic beliefs. She is a staunch Catholic and has been a pillar of the community, with many regarding her as a living saint.
One of the most vivid memories of Ms Wangechi's past is her association with Blessed Irene Stefani Nyaatha, a nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and the sick in Gikondi village. Ms Wangechi still recalls the prayers and songs she learned from Sister Nyaatha in Latin, which she fluently recites to this day.
Ms Wangechi's family and friends gathered to celebrate her birthday, with her second-born, Annah Wahitu, 72, recalling how she used to wake them up early every Sunday to pray before proceeding to Mass.
