The history of Nairobi’s City Park is a story of resilience, preservation, and passion for nature. The park, over a century old, has managed to survive the growth of the city, becoming a vital oasis for its residents. The Murumbi Memorial Park, within City Park, is a tribute to a key figure in Kenya’s fight for independence, Vice President Joseph Murumbi. Both parks are free entry, making them accessible to everyone.
The park is a mix of upland dry forest and grass plains, offering a haven for a variety of flora and fauna. It is a favorite spot for birdwatchers who have witnessed the changes in the environment over time. As Fleur Ng’weno, the octogenarian who started the Wednesday bird walks in 1971, states, “In the grand picture of things, these online bird lists tell the story of how the state of the environment is changing via the feathered kind.”
The Murumbi Memorial Park is a resting place for Joseph Murumbi and his wife Sheila. The park is adorned with sculptures by some of Africa’s finest artists, paying homage to the Pan-African spirit Murumbi and his friend Alan Donovan embodied. The park is also a reminder of Kenya’s fight for independence and the sacrifices made by its heroes. Pio Gama Pinto, Murumbi’s mentor and friend, was assassinated in 1965, and he is buried a few meters away in the City Park cemetery.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the Colobus monkey. These monkeys, once abundant in the area, were nearly wiped out by farmers who converted forests into farms. However, thanks to the efforts of local conservationists like Solomon Gitau, troops of Colobus monkeys were relocated to safer areas like Soysambu and Karura Forest.
City Park has a children’s playground and the Bowling Green restaurant, making it an excellent destination for families. However, visitors must remember to be responsible citizens and not litter or feed the Sykes monkeys. Caution is advised when wandering through the forest alone.
Nature Kenya offers many activities for those interested in learning about the dynamics of the natural world. It is an excellent opportunity to stay fit, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with nature in the heart of Nairobi, a city that hosts remnants of forests and the Nairobi National Park.
In conclusion, City Park is a symbol of Nairobi’s resilience and passion for preserving nature amid urbanization. It is a tribute to the heroes who fought for Kenya’s independence and a sanctuary for the flora and fauna that call it home. It is a destination for all who seek to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
