Crispus Riungu: Time to Stand With Him

Crispus Riungu: Time to Stand With Him

Elderly, unwell, and retired, Crispus Riungu is struggling financially. This is an urgent appeal to anyone who can help—old friends, former students, colleagues, or kindhearted Samaritans.

Crispus Riungu, a legendary teacher from Chogoria, Meru, played a crucial role in shaping generations of students from the North Eastern Province (NEP). A mentor, educator, and leader, he dedicated 33 years of his life to teaching Somali children during some of Kenya’s most turbulent times.

Today, at 86 years old, he is in poor health, facing grinding poverty with a meager monthly pension of 9,000 KES. This amount is insufficient to meet his basic needs, let alone cover his mounting medical expenses. He is confined to his modest home in Chogoria, battling loneliness and dwindling resources.

A Journey of Dedication

In 1963, during Kenya’s independence, as many nomadic people from the Northeast compulsory villagization in the era known as “John Ka’rar” (Running from John), Crispus left his hometown of Chogoria to take up a teaching position in Wajir. The journey was fraught with danger—bandits, land mines, and the harsh realities of the “Shifta Emergency” of the 1960s.

Recalling his journey, Crispus shared: “I had to obtain an approved entry permit from the white District Commissioner (DC) in Isiolo. The DC connected me with a convoy under the care of Adan Hanshi. Despite the perils, I was determined to educate Somali children.”

Crispus’s commitment to his profession and his students never wavered. Teaching at Wajir Full Primary School and later at other schools in the region, he persevered through political instability, cultural challenges, and personal hardships. His dedication saw many of his students excel, with some going on to attend Wajir High School, famously known as the “Oxford of the NFD” (Northern Frontier District).

A Legacy of Service

Crispus’s impact on his students and colleagues is profound. He recalls a 1964 incident when Shifta bandits invaded Wajir Primary School. His students defended him and other teachers, telling the bandits, “Our teachers are the best.” This unwavering support speaks volumes about the respect and admiration he earned.

However, Crispus’s time in Wajir was not without pain. He witnessed the horrors of the 1984 Wagalla Massacre, losing friends and colleagues. Yet, he remained a champion of the Somali community, advocating for understanding and unity despite the challenges.

Life After Retirement

After retiring in 1996, Crispus returned to Chogoria. Adjusting to life away from Wajir was difficult. “I dreamt of Wajir all the time,” he confessed. He also struggled to convince those in his home region of the kindness and hospitality of the Somali people he had come to know and love.

Today, Crispus’s health has declined significantly. Unable to walk and with limited resources, he faces an uphill battle. The once-thriving teacher and avid sports enthusiast is now in dire need of assistance.

A Call to Action

For those who were taught by Crispus or worked alongside him, this is a powerful moment to give back. Crispus’s unwavering dedication helped shape the lives of countless students, many of whom are now leaders and professionals. Now, he needs us.

Any support, no matter how small, will make a difference in honoring this remarkable man who dedicated his life to teaching Somali children during some of the darkest times. Let us come together to ensure that Crispus spends his sunset years in dignity.

To Donate:

Mpesa Name: Crispus Riungu Daniel Mwiandi
Phone: +254-710437020

By Abdullahi Irshat Sheikh