Wangû wa Makeri

Matirî Ngemi

Wangu wa Makeri was a community chief, known as Headman, during the British colonial period in Kenya. She was the only female Kikuyu Headman during the period, who later resigned following a scandal because she engaged in a dance called Kibata.

Wangu wa Makeri was born around 1856 in Murang’a. She had no formal education; instead she worked on her parent’s farm as a labourer. To learn more about Wangu, please listen and share.

Below are some links to some resources:

1. https://www.mathaga.com/products/wangu-wa-makeri-by-mary-w-wanyoika
2. https://artsandculture.google.com/story/wangu-wa-makeri-the-story-of-the-fiery-kikuyu-chieftess/RgICpQ_bJ4-QLA
3. Mûcûngwa: https://youtu.be/GV715ovKpxA