When the Ancient Tree Falls

The Novel When the Ancient Tree Falls is set in a remote Kenyan village called Mumbo and depicts the traditional political, socio-cultural, and economic life of the Luo community. The story is about the accomplishments of Ngode Aganyo, a pre-colonial community leader in the land of Mumbo, a confederation of six related clans. He was a great warrior and a judicious leader who led his family with love and firmness which made him the epitome of good morals and economic attainment within his community. Aganyo's leadership exemplifies public participation in making key decisions through consensus building, structured organization of political administration, and well-planned leadership succession, both at family and community levels. Aganyo is keen on carrying forward the spirit of his forefathers by diligently observing the rituals, teaching the customs to the young generation, and leading by example in the noble cause of sharing. Upon his death, the clan structures remain stable and he is given a hero's send-off attended by a huge crowd of mourners. The series of stories narrated through the thirteen chapters in the book highlight the various cultural practices among the Luo people. At the onset, the writer introduces Aganyo the patriarch, his family, clan, and his community. Aganyo's conflict resolution skills are exhibited when he brings two quarrelling brothers together in the spirit of peaceful resolution of riwo-luedo. Also introduced are the values of hard work, courtesy, kinship ties, and generosity. The use of stories and proverbs to pass important information and teachings to young children is exemplified by all adult characters. Marriage relationships were instituted, only after conducting thorough background checks on both sides of the family and there were clear rules of engagement between partners in a marriage relationship. Organized ceremonies were central in the lives of the community members. These were elaborate compulsory observances that marked the end or beginning of seasons or happenings such as birth, death, and marriage. These activities brought the community together and were useful in teaching the younger generations the important values of the people. Death was regarded as the final rite in the life of a person, and its occurrence attracted the participation of not just the immediate family members but the entire community. All ceremonies featured elaborate procedures that were clearly understood by every community member, and supervised by the elders. WRITER JARED OJUOK, HSC