Grassroots Power vs. Expensive PR — What Meru’s Two Events Revealed
Two Events, One County — Where Should Meru’s Resources Really Go? Earlier today, the Meru Deputy Governor launched her campaign against FGM, rape, and GBV. The photos on her social media page looked impressive — bright tents, crisp banners, neatly arranged seating. Everything about the event appeared polished and well-funded. But on the ground in Makutano, the story was very different: barely 10 to 15 people showed up. Now contrast that with what happened last week in Kianjai. A group of young people — Eng. Joram Kinoti, Hon. Kinoti wa Mwenda, and the Young Njuri — held a similar awareness campaign. Their photos were simple. No fancy lighting. No expensive décor. No staged perfection. Yet the difference was striking: Real attendance. Real energy. Real community connection. So, which event was truly successful? If “success” is measured by impact, turnout, and genuine participation, then Kianjai wins — by far. If “success” is measured by how good the photos look online, then of ...
