Harambee

Key Events

Gikonyo is in hospital recovering from breaking his arm during the Independence Day celebrations.
- While in hospital, he is inspired to carve a stool, a dream he had while in detention.
On the seventh day of his hospital stay, Mumbi visits him and reveals that she may not come again.
- Gikonyo insists they need to talk, but Mumbi says they need time to process things.
- She agrees to return the next day, leaving with "determined steps, sad, but almost sure."
Gikonyo is hopeful that they can reconcile and begins planning to carve a stool symbolising a woman "big with child."

Gikonyo reflects on his time in detention:
- He feels guilt for breaking under torture and confessing his oath of loyalty.
- He realises he is no better than Karanja or Mugo, but Mugo's confession motivates him to talk to Mumbi and understand her feelings.

The title "Harambee" means "unity" or "working together". This reflects the importance of community in the story.
The relationship between Gikonyo and Mumbi highlights the need for communication and cooperation.
- Gikonyo's willingness to speak about Mumbi's child shows his intent to break the silence and confront their shared troubles.
- Mumbi agrees to "open our hearts to one another, examine them, and then together plan the future we want."
- Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o conveys that this attitude of collaboration is essential for Kenya's progress.

Irony: Karanja's son, conceived during Gikonyo and Mumbi's separation, becomes the bridge for their reconciliation.

Gikonyo plans to carve the stool from a Muiri stem, representing Kenya's lush land before the State of Emergency.
- This symbolises Kenya's hope for renewal.
The "woman big with child" carved on the stool symbolises:
- Gikonyo's ability to move past his pain.
- Forgiveness of Mumbi and a hopeful future together.

Biblical reference: 1 Corinthians 15:36 – "The grain must die for new life to happen."
- Sacrifice and suffering lead to transformation and renewal.
In the novel, this symbol reflects the relationship between Gikonyo and Mumbi:
- Gikonyo must let go of his anger and jealousy for their marriage to heal.

At the end of the novel, Mumbi represents a strong, independent woman who overcomes past difficulties, symbolising the new, independent Kenya.