EMBRACING CULTURE

Atheist Harrison Mumia changes name to 'reclaim' African identity

He said Kenyans must begin being proud of their ethnic, indigenous Kenyan names.

In Summary

• He said it was unfortunate that Kenyans use English names instead of embracing their culture.

• Mumia said Kenyans must begin being proud of their ethnic, indigenous Kenyan names.

Atheists in Kenya Society chairman Harrison Mumia
Atheists in Kenya Society chairman Harrison Mumia
Image: COURTESY.

Atheists' association president Harrison Mumia has changed his name to 'reclaim' his African identity.

Mumia will now be addressed as Nyende Mumia Nyende.

"This will be reflected on my birth certificate, passport and all other identification documents," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

He said it was unfortunate that Kenyans use English names instead of embracing their culture.

"It is unfortunate that white missionaries convinced Africans that African names were not good in Christianity. It’s so sad when I see Kenyans calling themselves John, Mary, Magdalene and James," he said.

"Likewise, Muslims in Africa have been convinced that Arab names are the good names, not African ones. "

He said Kenyans must begin being proud of their ethnic, indigenous Kenyan names.

"The ministry of culture should encourage Kenyan parents to use indigenous Kenyan names for their children," he added.

Two months ago, Atheists in Kenya secretary Seth Mahiga resigned after finding Jesus.

Mahiga had been in the society for one and half years resigned on Saturday evening.

"Seth's reason for resigning is that he has found Jesus Christ and is no longer interested in promoting atheism in Kenya. We wish Seth all the best in his newfound relationship with Jesus Christ," Mumia said. 

Mumia thanked him for having served society with dedication.

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