Paukwa Stories Podcast

Even through the dark times of colonial rule, the people of Nyamira rose up, bold and defiant in the face of injustice. Their stories live on in this episode. Listen to the tales that abound in the stunning area that is Nyamira County.

This episode has been narrated by Mwihaki M.

Soapstone artifacts are in our homes and offices, but did you know that most of these works of art are made in County 45? With its fertile landscape, the agricultural produce overflows from the food-basket that is Kisii. Its hills have long been inhabited by warriors and poets. Explore Kisii County with us on this episode.

This episode has been narrated by Mwihaki M.

Migori is known for the stone structured wall that has stood for hundreds of years. Do you know the people that built this heritage site? Hmmmmm,
Then perhaps you've had of the island fought over by Uganda and Kenya? It certainly belongs to +254
Find out about Migori on this episode.

Homabay is a land of tales, and we can’t shy away from a good story.
County 42 is home to Rusinga Island and Kendu Bay, but what’s most fascinating is the story that comes from this county.

The episode has been narrated by Mwihaki M. and Ayanna G.

Siaya County is a land of rich heritage. From the many decades of deep dedication to education and the sites named after Kenyan historical figures, it draws us to our glorious past. Did you know County 41 has the longest coastline along Lake Victoria? Discover much more on this episode.

This episode has been narrated by Natalie S.

Busia is a county full of wonders. It’s mapped as County 40 and, beyond the unlimited supply of Lake Victoria fish, this county is known for an annual boat festival that brings people together from far and wide. Perhaps this episode will give you the right feel of what to expect in Busia.

The episode has been narrated by Gracia O.

In this county once hailed a Luo legend. He was named Luanda Magere and his prowess as a warrior who could not be defeated came to be known.
Heard the story? Here it is.

Narrated by Salome Ayugi
Photo by Kevin Gitonga

With some 1.4 million people occupying 2,069 sq km of land, Bungoma is one of the most densely populated counties in Kenya. It is fast growing into a new hub of economic activity, now being accelerated through its Kibabii University.

Listen to its beautiful story here.

The Tiriki of Vihiga County are very interesting people with interesting traditions that they cherish even today. Listen to the story of Vihiga County.

In Kenya, we resonate different communities with traits or food. The peeps of Kakamega are known for their love (and we mean love) for chicken.
More so, Kakamega county hosts the Kakamega National Forest but is also traditional in a sense. Learn about this county in the west.

Episode narrated by Natalie S.

Grab a cup of chai and join us as we travel through the county that is known for this warming, beloved Kenyan brew. In Kericho, we find a calm, welcoming getaway. In this episode, we uncover a place that seems like it was made especially for the historian, the traveler, and the avid golfer. Nature enthusiasts and conservationists aren’t left out of the fun either in County 35!

This episode has been narrated by Natalie S.

On this episode, join us in the booming county of Kajiado. After a hike up one of the county's many hills, explore the pink lake within the county's borders. From its wide open spaces to the picturesque ridges that adorn it, Kajiado will draw you in with sunsets to take your breath away.

This episode has been narrated by Gracia O.

Explore the land of many hidden treasures with us – Narok on this week's episode. Not only does this county have Kenya's largest gold mining project, but some of the best agricultural projects too! Wheat, barley, and bamboo flourish in this treasure-chest. Experience Narok as you listen to this podcast. Perhaps you'll want to see the treasure for yourself.

This episode has been narrated by Natalie S.

On this week's podcast, we go to Nakuru: the county which borders eight other counties. As a nationally-known halfway point from travelers to various East African destinations, Nakuru has been an essential resting place since the early 1900s. With Kenya's natural spa and scenes that would fill you with serenity, County 32 should be your next destination.

This episode has been narrated by Teshi.

'The treeless plain' is the other name given to this county. Of course, this is a name it acquired eons ago. Today, Laikipia produces wheat, maize, and even carrots! If you haven't guessed by now, Kenya is a food basket.
There's lots to do and see in this county, and this episode lets you know more.

Narrated by: Mutua Mweu

In this episode, join us in the land of a million flamingos - Baringo County. Here you'll find daring divers and wildlife, both vividly colorful and dangerous. In County 30, green pastures, desert lands, gorges, ravines, and rivers await you.

This episode has been narrated by Mwihaki M.

Welcome to Nandi. The place best remembered for Nandi Oorgoiyot, Koitalel arap Samoei - the Nandi leader who fiercely fought off the British invasion on Nandi land.
This episode takes us back in time.... history buffs, feel free to take notes

You know the saying "He was running like a Kenyan"? Well, we owe this growingly recognized similie to this county where we find Iten - the home of champions. This county sits in the former Rift Valley Province, and has its hidden gems and amazing landscape. Press Play.

Narrated by: Kimani Chege

Uasin Gishu County has towns with some of the most unique names. For instance, Eldoret Town. The name Eldoret originates from the Maa word 'Eldore,' meaning 'Stone River' thanks to the Sosiani River that runs through the town. Other towns in Uasin Gishu County like Moi’s Bridge and Burnt Forest also have very unique stories worth listening to.

Agriculture! That's all there is to know and celebrate this green county. Trans Nzoia is a large producer of wheat, maize, and dairy products, and is certainly an ideal location for those looking to venture into farming.

In Kitale, the vibrant county seat of this county, tourists and explorers will find the National Museum - formerly known as Stoneham Museum after its first owner, Lt Colonel Hugh Stoneham.

This episode has been narrated by Salome Ayugi

If you've looked at or studied Kenya's history, then you know a thing or two about the Kapenguria Six. It was in this county, in 1952, where the six men were detained by the colonial government.

Listen to this episode and know more about our magical as well as historical, and impressive nation.
The episode has been narrated by Natalie S.

Did you know that Lake Turkana is a fishing ground for fishermen of the area? Besides its magical nature, this is Kenya's second largest lake.

In Turkana, you will find the Christ the Redeemer statue - making this place a pilgrimage site for many Catholic faithful.

Photo By: Job Njiru
Narrated By: Natalie Sifuma

From the famous Bata shoe industries to the Bidco plant to the genesis of Chief Waiyaki wa Hinga, there is never a dull moment in county 022 aka Kiambu.

This thriving county is growing as a residential area with more Nairobi workers seeking houses in Kiambu town, Ruiru, Thika and Limuru.

Photo By: Brian Karuiru
Narrated By: Edwin Kimani Chege

Nyeri has many tales to its name. All you have to do is travel north and talk to the people of the county. On this episode, we tell you the story of Nyeri via reference to the locals.

Photo and Narration by Mwihaki.

Nyandarua is seasoned with hidden gems as well as fertile soil.
For starters, this is the Kenyan home of cabbages! Yes, cabbages - but also lots of other vegetables however cabbages prevail here.

Also, Lake Ol Bollosat calls county 18 home. It is known as the little lake that hosts magnificent bird life.

Photo By: Josiah Gachanja
Narrated By: Natalie Sifuma

Makueni is known for Sultan Hamud, Makindu Temple but more recently for its endless produce of mangoes - yummm! Listen to its history that dates back to the late 19th century to its present.

Photo By: Grace Muhoro
Narrated By: Aleya Kassam

Machakos County is legendary!
In this county you will find the most unique of tales and facts; ones ideal for lovers of stories.

In this episode we tell an ancient swahili tale. So.... Paukwa?

Photo By: One Touch Live
Narrated By: Kevin Mwachiro

Ann Eboso wears many hats, and in all of them she spearheads action! At the core of what she does is work that amplifies women and cultures under threat of being erased. Her one-of-a-kind project is the Rusinga Cultural Festival, which appreciates and educates about the Abasuba community and culture.

In this conversation we get into how systems have failed to empower this community and the ripple effects of this. Anne shares the backstory and progress in providing a necessary solution in an exciting and creative way.

Episode Production:

Host - Cheruto Rono

Writer/Editor - Karen Wandia

Coordinator and Producer - Natalie Sifuma

Audio Engineer - Lee Kanyotu (Big City Studios)

What hope is there for a person, who grew up dreaming of being a journalist, when unceremoniously laid off from the newsroom? James Murua took this unexpected transition with stride and developed a news platform with a twist. Eager to explore the African literary scene, he developed an archival blog under his name and today has multiple awards under his belt.  Be inspired by this story of unanticipated change and the abundant success that came with continuous diligence.

Episode Production:

Host - Cheruto Rono

Writer/Editor - Karen Wandia

Coordinator and Producer - Natalie Sifuma

Audio Engineer - Lee Kanyotu (Big City Studios)

When Wairimũ Nduba started Wer Jokenya in 2019, she was simply feeding her heart’s desire to explore music that is inherently African. In this journey, she discovered the history of tunes locally made, how sound cuts across community, as well as its ability to speak about specific times. Melodies and lyrics indeed tell a story, and Wer Jokenya has since become a go-to digital archive for musical content.

The erasure of music and its contribution to culture is inevitable if we don’t take the initiative to discover, learn and appreciate our music. This #FounderStories conversation unblurs the lines of what music means, where to find it, and how it tells stories, initiates dialogue and builds community.

Episode Production:

Host - Cheruto Rono

Writer/Editor - Karen Wandia

Coordinator and Producer - Natalie Sifuma

Audio Engineer - Lee Kanyotu (Big City Studios)