JULIE GICHURU’S SON CELEBRATES ITHEMBA A JOURNEY TO MANHOOD

Julie Gichuru’s youngest son recently participated in the traditional Agikuyu cultural celebration known as Ithemba, marking a significant milestone in his journey to manhood.

Ithemba is an initiation ceremony among the Agikuyu community, symbolising the homecoming of young men from their initiation rites. During this transformative experience, a group of boys, known as a riika, undergo a period of separation from their families. Through various rituals and teachings, they explore their cultural heritage, support one another, and forge lifelong bonds.

Upon their return home, a joyous celebration awaits, where the community welcomes them back and acknowledges their growth from adolescence to adulthood. Over time, Ithemba has evolved to incorporate faith-based teachings and has become inclusive, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to participate.

“The ceremony is highly symbolic. Mothers pray blessings upon their sons and hand them physically to the custody of their fathers – marking the end of childhood and start of manhood. The role of fathers, uncles and mentors is crucial as a key source of support and guidance for the young men,” Gichuru wrote.