The basis of of these illustrations are the various stories told about the origin of the Gikuyu people. I am using the story of Gikuyu and Mumbi and their nine daughters as the starting point of what was to become the myth of Wangu Wa Makeri.

All images Copyright © Kiboko Hachiyon.

Ngai calls Gikuyu showing him all lands at the base of Mount Kenya, telling him the lands will be the home of Gikuyu and his children forever.

Gikuyu is sent to a grove of fig trees where he finds Ngai has provided him with a beautiful wife. Gikuyu names her Mumbi.

Gikuyu and Mumbi live happily together and have nine daughters. Gikuyu is disturbed at the thought of having no male heir

Ngai commands Gikuyu to make a sacrifice at a fig tree and return the following day