'Makinya Ja Jesu’, The Riddle of Jesus in Meru


Jesus set foot in Kenya, well that according to residents of Rwarera location in Meru County, east of Mount Kenya.


Gikinya kia Jesu Footprint believed to belong to Jesus at Rwarera Location,MERU County. Photo/Felix Kinyua.



The natives believe that the area is the real Jerusalem because of the ‘Makinya Ja Jesu’ which loosely translates to ‘Jesus Footprints’, in Kimeru Language.

 The set of Makinya Ja Jesu is found on the sedimentary rocks, which cover about 200 acres of land. Next to them are footprints which appear to be those of a donkey or a horse.

One of the human-like footprints is huge and inside it is a smaller one. Next to it are two smaller ones which appear to be that of an average adult.

The serene area located along the Meru-Ruiri-Isiolo road is also famous for its natural salt water springs known as Monyo, locals’ belief that this water has anesthetic properties and can cure a range of diseases.

The spring which is known as Katheruko, meaning boiling point has never dried up despite the area being semi-arid.


Visitors use half-cut plastic soda bottle which has been used close to two decades according to the residents.

Visitors are always advised to leave the ‘cup’ after drinking from it for the next visitor.

A visitor draws water from Katheruko springs, the water from the spring is believed to cure a range of diseases. Photo/Felix Kinyua

Apart from the footprints and the spring, the area has amazing sites which is a gem for photographers who often visit with clients for out-door shoots.

Residents say that the site should be recognized as a world heritage center.

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