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Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong'o and PS Housing Charles Hinga during the opening of Baby Pendo Park in Kisumu. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard]
It is a fresh turn for the family of Baby Samantha Pendo after Kisumu opened a park in her honour, offering a place to preserve her memory. For the family, the unveiling of the Baby Pendo Botanical Park is only a step towards keeping her legacy alive, as their long-standing quest for justice and accountability remains unresolved.
The park, which stands on the grounds of the former Kachok dumpsite, is a symbol of remembrance and a public reminder of the tragic events that claimed Baby Pendo’s life. Baby Samantha Pendo, from Nyalenda informal settlement in Kisumu, died during the 2017 post-election protests after police officers reportedly stormed her family’s home, used teargas and struck her on the head.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony in Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o said the decision to convert the former dumpsite into Baby Pendo Botanical Park was informed by the need to create a city that respects its residents and provides meaningful spaces for citizens.
