When the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics released data on the counties with the least faithful partners, it surprised many that Nakuru was not in the top ten. This owes to the NaxVegas tagline that the town was baptized alluding to the residents being party lovers with little or no care for morals.

Despite being a small city compared to Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa, Nakuru has branded herself the country’s party haven. It is here that men and women come to in search of a space to unwind.

These places stretch from night clubs, high end hotels along its lakes and camping sites with breathtaking views. The much loved Prinsloo rugby games is what shaped the city’s identity to the country’s getaway place.

However, this is an image that is relatable only to those who visit. Nakuru on a normal day is a conservative town. One lady in a seemingly short skirt strutting across the CBD is enough to bring the city to a standstill.

While other bigger cities have embraced the LGBTQ community providing a safe space for them to meet and commune, Nakuru is not there yet. In fact, names of persons thought to be of this community are still discussed in hush tones.

Night clubs that have in the past introduced exotic dancers have ended up closing. Although other factors contribute to the closure, one of them is that majority of the revelers in said clubs are from outside Nakuru city.

For many people, being identified in these joints amounts to shame. Those bold enough to experience it wear caps intentionally hiding their faces from their judgmental peers.

Therefore, perhaps it is time Nakuru weaned itself off this NaxVegas tag as it is not a true representation of its people.

A nickname if any, should reflect loyalty, oneness and good old courtesy because that is what her people are about.

It is Time Nakuru Sheds Off 'NaxVegas' Title

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Reitz Mureithi