Gatundu south: The Kikuyu Council of Elders has dismissed claims by a section of church leaders that their cultural practices encourage alcohol consumption among the youth, stressing that traditional brews such as Muratina are symbolic and reserved for rituals, not for recreational drinking. Speaking in Gatundu South during a Kikuyu cultural ceremony, Council chairperson Kariuki Kibathi warned that continued criticism and misinterpretation of traditions risked eroding cultural values and creating unnecessary divisions within the community.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kibathi stated, 'There is a misinterpretation by a section of the church leadership that the council of elders encourages the youth to drink alcohol. This kind of misunderstanding can affect the unity of our community.' He urged for cooperation between religious and cultural leaders to foster both tradition and spiritual growth, adding that elders were fully aware of their parental responsibilities.
'We are the parents of these children. We protect and guide them toward moral values and doing what is right. The church should stop criticizing us and instead appreciate our role,' he added. Nderi Karanja, another elder, emphasized that the council respects and is not in conflict with the church, calling for open dialogue instead of public disputes.
Karanja also warned the youth against abusing alcohol, saying illicit brews have destroyed several young lives. He at the same time called on the government to address unemployment, which he said was driving many youths into drug and alcohol abuse.
'The government must create opportunities for the youth to reduce idleness which leads to alcoholism in several instances. If they had jobs, they would be occupied and avoid alcohol,' he noted. Kiamwangi MCA Kung'u Smart Wanjiku defended the elders, saying their mentorship and preservation of cultural values has helped shape the society.
'The council of elders mobilizes young people, advises them, and teaches them to live responsibly while conserving their cultural heritage. Let's not criticize them but instead work closely to help to improve the lives of our young people,' he said. The leaders also raised concern over the proliferation of illicit brews in the area and called on chiefs and police officers to arrest and prosecute unlicensed brewers and sellers.