In practice, a cemetery ought to be a place where the departed find rest after navigating the trials and tribulations of life. One would imagine it to be quiet, dotted by tomb stones on which flowers from loved ones lie.

However, Nakuru South cemetery is the exact opposite.

Besides being a burial site, the cemetery also serves as a practicing ground for AC Manyani Football team. At around 4pm, members of the team gather on the south of the cemetery for their daily practice.

According to one of the coaches Paul Karori, the group chose to be carrying out their training in the area due to lack of a training venue.

"The boys have been practicing here for the last three years after we failed to secure a venue for training" he said.

Karori and his boys are not the only anomaly on these grounds. Cattle from neighbouring homes are found roaming in the grave yard as well in search of grass.

You will spot majority of the cattle herding on the lower part of the cemetery

The cemetery also serves as a venue for socializing.

You will find a section of youth sitting on top of the tomb stones socializing with discussions on various issues around the area.

However, on days when the cemetery serves its sole purpose of hosting departed souls, youth in the neighbouring estates find business opportunities.

A section of youth from the area improvise car wash services as well as parking of vehicles for those who attend burial ceremonies in the area.

You will see them in jackets branded security. Their work is simple: to ensure those who attend funerals at the cemetery have their vehicles well parked.

They also help offer car wash services for those who would love their vehicles cleaned as they proceed with the funeral services.

This, the youth do at a minimal fee.

pmambili@googlemail.com

Disturbing the Dead?: Cemetery Where Football Team Trains On

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Pristone Mambili