The burial Bridgit Njoki Wainaina, 12, is underway in Ndumberi, Kiambu County.
She was fatally shot by a stray police bullet while watching TV inside her home during the Saba Saba protests on July 7.
Mother of Bridgit Njoki Speaks
Bridgit Njoki and her mother, Lucy Ngugi, were safely inside their mabati (iron sheet) house in Kiamaiko, Nairobi, watching the Saba Saba news when a loud bang suddenly rang out.
Lucy noticed blood on her daughter’s hands, and as she reached out to her, Bridgit collapsed. That is when she saw the head wound and realized her daughter had been shot. The bullet had went through the metal walls of their home, fired as police attempted to disperse protesters outside.
A post-mortem confirmed that Bridgit died from a gunshot wound. The bullet was recovered and handed over to IPOA, which is now investigating her case.
Lucy Ngugi was overcome with grief during the service and had to be supported by her husband and two women as she broke down in tears.
“Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, as we go for the burial, I pray for Your peace. Let us leave all the tears here.” Lucy Ngugi said.
“As we go back to church, we are going to a celebration, a celebration of a life well lived by my dear daughter. Wipe away our tears, oh Lord. I will not cry again, and from here, it is well,”
The funeral was attended by several political leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, and Eugene Wamalwa. They joined mourners in calling for an end to police violence and better protection for innocent citizens, especially children.
Bridgit’s father also spoke during the service, urging the government to take responsibility. “We know we cannot bring our daughter back, but we want to make sure no other family has to go through this pain,” he said.
As her small white casket was lowered into the ground, the people of Ndumberi stood in unity, mourning, outraged, and determined to ensure her death will not be in vain.
By Vivian K.