Independence

The authors consistently employ the characters’ experiences to call into question the inherent value of independence. The concept of independence forms the background to the events of the play, as we learn almost immediately that it takes place in post-independence Kenya. While the viewer might expect that independence improved the lives of the characters, they actually seem to romanticize their pre-independence lives as better than their current state of existence. On numerous occasions, Kiguunda and Wangeci recall fond memories of their pre-independence days and sing songs to that effect, generating questions about whether independence actually yielded any benefits for them. Kiguunda and Gicaamba also frequently mention that their wages have stagnated and prices have increased, demonstrating that independence did not lead to any visible improvement in their financial condition.

A number of the characters also experience personal struggles with the concept of independence throughout the play...