Kenyan filmmaker Kinyua Kamau debuts his first feature film, Nyūmba Ya Mbūri, a captivating story set in the mystical landscapes of Mount Kenya. The film, part of the NBO Film Festival, premieres on Friday, October 25 at The Prestige Plaza Cinemas and on Saturday, October 26, at Unseen, inviting audiences on an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s natural and historical treasures.
Exploring Kenya’s Hidden Gems
In Nyūmba Ya Mbūri, viewers follow hikers on a journey to some of Mount Kenya’s lesser-known wonders, like Lake Ellis, Nithi Waterfall, Kechi Tarn, and the hidden caves of Nyūmba Ya Mbūri, once used by Mau Mau freedom fighters to evade colonial forces. The film’s title, Nyūmba ya Mbūri, holds layers of meaning, according to Kamau. “In the film, the title symbolizes mystery, hidden history, and knowledge,” he shares, hinting at untold stories embedded in Kenya’s landscapes.
A New Way to See Mt. Kenya
Nyūmba Ya Mbūri also introduces Stella Njeri Kaburu, known as “The Mountain Goat,” a seasoned mountaineer and director of Mara Expeditions. Stella, with her roots in tourism, is passionate about bringing the stories of Mt. Kenya to life. “These stories connect people to the mountain’s rich history and beauty,” she says, “It’s a way of bringing the mountain closer to people in Kenya and beyond.” For her, the film is a way to demystify myths and introduce audiences to new perspectives of Mt. Kenya.
A Film That Slows Down Time
Kinyua Kamau, the film’s director, hopes that audiences approach the film with an open mind. “Every time I watch it, I feel time slows down, and I’m immersed in the mountain’s beauty,” he explains. With Stella taking on a lead role, the film showcases Mt. Kenya in ways beyond the typical hiking and climbing, offering viewers fresh experiences that deepen their connection with the mountain and Kenyan heritage.
Nyūmba Ya Mbūri redefines storytelling about Kenya’s iconic landscapes and will likely inspire a sense of adventure and pride in viewers across the country. If you’re curious to see Kenya’s majestic Mt. Kenya as you’ve never seen it before, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch Nyūmba Ya Mbūri this weekend.
