Celebrating the Legacy of My Father, Charles Ekuam Nagolei

Father’s Day is a special occasion, a time to reflect on the men who have shaped our lives and left indelible marks on our hearts. Today, I want to share the story of my father, the late Charles Ekuam Nagolei, a man whose memory I cherish deeply.

My father was a towering, handsome figure, his light skin a stark contrast against the backdrop of the plains of the River Tarach in Turkana West Sub County, Kenya. But beyond his striking appearance, it was his infectious smile that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. It was a smile that could light up a room, one that conveyed warmth and kindness.

As the fifth-born son in a family of five brothers and two sisters, I experienced firsthand the unique and special way my father connected with each of us. He had a special name for each child, a name that went beyond what was inscribed in government documents. In our culture, we did not rely on birth certificates to confirm our dates of birth. Instead, we understood our ages through seasons and age sets. My own birth certificate, now a necessity for complying with government requirements, is a mere formality compared to the significance of my father’s affectionate nickname for me, "egole kang," meaning "my eagle."

This name held profound meaning. It was my father’s way of encouraging me to adopt the eagle’s perspective to soar high, observe everything below, and remain curious about the changes that life brings. His wisdom, encapsulated in this simple yet powerful metaphor, has guided me throughout my life.

Growing up in Nakwamekwi village in Turkana Central Sub County, I learned that in our culture, fathers are warriors, and their sons are raised to follow in their footsteps. My father embodied this warrior spirit, teaching us resilience, strength, and the importance of family and community.

Today, as I celebrate Father’s Day, I remember my father not just for his physical presence, but for the values he instilled in me. His lessons continue to guide me, reminding me to approach life with courage, curiosity, and an unwavering sense of duty.

To all the sons and daughters out there, whether your fathers are with you or have passed on, take a moment to celebrate their legacy. Remember the special ways they touched your lives, the unique names they called you, and the invaluable lessons they imparted. Fathers are more than the names on our birth certificates; they are the guiding stars in our lives.

In memory of Charles Ekuam Nagolei, and in honor of all fathers who have left their marks on our hearts, Happy Father’s Day.

Author

Ekaale Ekuam

A Freelance Writer Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management Consultant.