03/01/2026
Along Kabarak Road, a few kilometres from Nakuru City, stands Mercy Njeri Shopping Centre. In the middle of this busy centre is Mercy Njeri Primary School, formerly known as Kiamunyi Primary School. Many people assume the name belongs to a powerful leader or a wealthy person. But Mercy Njeri was neither.
She was just a child.
Born in Kiamunyi in 1975, Mercy was healthy until she was about six years old. She then started suffering from breathing difficulties and frequent illnesses. Doctors later diagnosed her with rheumatic heart disease, commonly referred to as a “hole in the heart” condition.
In 1985, doctors recommended urgent heart surgery in the United Kingdom. The cost was KSh 500,000, money her family did not have. Several fundraisers were organised, but only a small amount was raised. The family slowly lost hope.
Then, on 4th February 1985, President Daniel arap Moi made a stop at Kiamunyi Primary School, where Mercy was a Standard Three pupil. The head teacher explained Mercy’s condition and shared her dream of becoming a doctor. The story deeply touched the President.
President Moi immediately mobilised funds and invited Mercy’s father to State House Nakuru. He paid for the surgery and travel expenses. On 14th March 1985, Mercy flew to the UK full of hope.
On 29th March 1985, Mercy underwent a long and delicate 12 hour heart operation. Sadly, she passed away that same night.
Her burial took place on 6th April 1985 at her family’s home in Kiamunyi. In a rare gesture, President Moi attended the funeral. During the service, the head teacher requested that the school be renamed in Mercy’s honour. The President agreed.
Today, Mercy’s name lives on through Mercy Njeri Primary School, Mercy Njeri Secondary School, Mercy Njeri Shopping Centre and Mercy Njeri Road. An entire community carries the name of a child.
As a way of honouring their daughter’s memory, Mercy’s family has continued to support the school. They have renovated two classrooms and furnished th
