Children endured hunger, death, and horror in Shakahola - Psychologist tells court

A clinical psychologist on Thursday narrated to a Tononoka court how children who survived the Shakahola massacre three years ago endured deep psychological trauma.

Dr. Florence Mueni, who took to the stand before Principal Magistrate Nelly Chepchirchir, was part of the volunteer team that helped in counselling the victims of controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie’s Good News International (GNI) church.

Dr. Florence said the minors suffered mental health issues due to starvation, isolation and exposure to deaths.

In reference to one of the children, she explained how the minors recounted the experiences, stating: “The child experiences recurring nightmares and intrusive thoughts of witnessing people die.”

After presenting signs of trauma and grief, 13 children were taken through several therapy sessions. Dr. Florence informed the court that some of them developed anger, stress disorder and repeated nightmares as a result of experiencing the cruelty and torture of their fellow children and adults.

She said that one child reported that his worst experience was watching his brother die.

The psychologist also noted that some children showed physical and psychological symptoms like memory lapses and dizziness which were common due to extreme fasting and physical weakness.

According to Dr. Florence, one child reported “fear, anger, shame, and a loss of interest in things he previously enjoyed.”

At the beginning of the therapy sessions the psychologist noted that many children were traumatized by the mention of Pastor Paul Mackenzie’s name. However, as months went by, they were able to process the grief.

Separately, Chief Raymond Msindah spoke of the events that led to the discovery of children at Shakahola forest, saying he received reports from the villagers.

While on a fact-finding mission, the administrator said he encountered armed men and was hence forced to withdraw and retreat.