As I write this, I am part of a larger group gathered at the Kenyatta National Hospital mortuary along Ngong’ Road in Nairobi Kenya. Many of us came to this point in time via the different roads that run as helpful veins around the vibrant hospital.
All these roads; Mbagathi, Hospital, Kenya, Mucai, Mara, Cathedral, Woodlands and Bishop led to that common magnet of human emotions. We came together yet again to sort out who could run errands; identify those who could hold the purse; others chose to remain prayerful sentinels who embraced the night’s cold; and others made the calls to pass on information. We watched the wonderful staff of Kenyatta National Hospital fight so hard to hold in place a life that was escaping from our colleague. They did their best, we witnessed the world class Kenyatta Hospital care providers at their work. Roger Waligo, a young straddling bundle of energy breathed that last sigh on 29th July 2017! May Roger find fuller meaning in heaven’s abode.
Keeping the treasured life of Roger was a community task. Days before the death, we were held together by one task of saving a life. However, death robbed us and the days after 29th Just 2017 became a blur of horror.
We were torn apart, sorrow does that. We were angry, death does that. But, we remembered Roger during moments like these in past experiences. During a past bereavement, it was Roger who was part of those mobilizing logistics to intern another colleague of ours who passed away in 2014. So, we resolved to make arrangements for Roger's body to be well dressed and prepared for internment in a fitting way. Roger deserved a befitting farewell and we are sure we did our best. We thank the Kenyan community for being with us during our moments of sorrow. We thank the Kenyatta National Hospital staff for providing space and bearing with us as we mourned our loved one.
I listened to whispered conversations attesting to the good acts and hard work Roger always displayed. We are using this occasion to extend our hand and hearts to comfort one another. I recall the times I visited Roger's home at Kawangware-Muthama and we toured a sprawling Tuputupu-size garden of Irish potatoes, tomatoes, cabbages and anything that could grow cared for by those able hands. In a makeshift fence were a few birds clucking in anticipation of food when they noticed us. Or, it could have been their unwavering welcome in chicken-speak. Roger was always a welcome sight even to the poultry at this home.
One day, I wanted members to help us with our themed spiritual support event combined as a musical psychosocial support session too. When Roger joined us, we turned the event into a “gal power” theme. That is how fast and energetic Roger was. Always hands on and appropriate. It made sensible planning and when the event was conducted it was billed as a very successful event ever organized by refugees for refugees. Since then, Roger has been attending all Nature Network events.
Roger, we mourn your passing. We bid you a goodbye. We will never forget you. For those who knew you well and loved you, the pain is deep and enduring. The LGBTIQQ community, too, will long feel the loss of a good friend. We can find consolation only in faith, for we know in our hearts that you who brought warmth to all of us will bring the same to heaven safe in God's promise of eternal life.
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