The name is absent

their own power defined by themselves. For example, when questioned on this
topic, S. Kakie stated:

“I took the oath because of the faith in it. After taking the oath, it became clear
to me that nothing was impossible. If one was shot dead, those who were with
him were to take soil and eat it. It symbolized that he died fighting for
independence and more so the land. That is a very strong law and was
followed by all Mau Maus.”⁶⁰

Kakie’s statement reveals a new consciousness and commitment. Women had
choices about their conditions, and the Mau Mau oath enabled them to act on
their choices. The next section considers the new possibilities that were available
once women took the oath.

New Spaces for Oathed Women

Women used spaces in the Mau Mau war as a means to fulfill their
aspirations and dreams for themselves and for Kenya. One of the best ways to
understand how they used these spaces is through the different roles women
embraced during the movement; some were more desirable than others. Some
women were able to advance in the movement. For example, Wanjiru
Nyarmaratu supported Mau Mau efforts by bringing food and supplies to men;
over time she moved into leadership and eventually became a judge in the
movement.⁶¹

The role of women in the Mau Mau movement provides a snapshot of the
societal changes and struggles and the ongoing battle for women to control their
own destiny, body, and mobility. The varied and new roles played out by women

⁶⁰ Interview, S. Kakie, January 2009, Machakos, Kenya.

⁶¹ David E. Jones, Women Warriors, A History, (Washingon: Brassey’s, 1997), 93.

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