One of the highlights of our first trip to Kenya was the drive from Nairobi to Kitale. Each turn held a new discovery: from the vistas stretching out across the Great Rift Valley as we left Nairobi, to the incredible shades of millions of pink flamingos on Lake Nakuru, to construction rest stops- thick with baboons fighting for the trash thrown off by passersby… it’s an embrace by Kenya not soon forgotten. It’s a long drive. The road is sub-standard and under repair. Those who travel to Kitale more often than we do- fly to Eldoret, to avoid the hassle. Sitting in my office just now, the drive in sounds like a dream, surrounded by all I know so well and far from the fond memories of those long, dusty, bumpy rides… makes me want to return just to cross the country.
The article, in the link above, was in today’s news: it seems more controversy’s brewing over the repair to the Nairobi/Eldoret roadway. Nakuru is a beautiful city beside the lake, just off the main road. The road through Nakuru has numerous historic points of interest, however, to the casual traveler, what stand out are the thousands of Jacaranda trees. In dry season they provide shade for weary workers and travelers- in spring, beautiful purple flowers welcome all who pass by. I can’t imagine anyone cutting these gorgeous trees down- but that’s what’s happening.
Growing up in Long Beach, California, Jacaranda’s were a part of our landscape. They scatter the city and make a mess as their blossoms fade and fall. But on the streets that are lined with the trees- one street is lined for over a mile with them –people take pride in their beauty. Nakuru’s trees are so much bigger and they line the city streets for miles. Some were planted before independence; other’s by Kenyatta himself, others by his wife and hundreds of trees put in the hard ground by good working people with a vision of miles of blossoms… miles of shade… a living invitation to their home… something to set them apart from other growing cities in the valley.
Now they’re being cut down to make a road more passable… short sighted construction at best. Kenya has huge problems. The coming elections are bringing many to light. But Kenya is also filled with people of hope, beauty and fellowship- community’s who appreciate simple things: like trees planted by those who’ve gone before us and now leave a memory in all who pass by.
I’ve made fun of the ongoing construction on the Nairobi/Eldoret roadway. I’ve complained about the bumps, ruts, mud and general neglect that hamper ease of travel. I’ve always looked forward to that oasis moment, the streets lined with Jacaranda’s, our brief time in Nakuru… in fact I’ve made it a detour in sunshine and rain: someday I plan on hanging out there for awhile. When I do, I hope the streets are lined with shade giving trees, each with their own story, giving rest to the weary… I’ll gladly suffer the bumps through that section of town.
This Beautiful Photo taken on The Shores of Lake Nakuru
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