Couple 'Celebrate' 76 Years of Marriage in One Grave

An elderly couple was on Saturday laid to rest in a rare send-off ceremony where they were interred in one grave amid a celebratory mood in Yowani village, Kitui County.

The couple, whose relationship inspired many, is said to have been in an unconditional love that spanned 76 years, until last month when they passed on three days apart.

101-year-old Malonza Ngambi, who once worked as a home guard for the late Minister Njenga Karume, died on January 20, 2015 while his wife Elizabeth Mukeli, 94, passed on three days later - on January 23.

Ngambi and Mukeli were given a final send off at a joyous event where they were eulogized as a couple whose marriage defied all odds.

“We have been awed by their rare story of love. For that reason, we saw it fit to inter them in one grave,” said Mwendwa Zakayo, one of their grandsons.

The rare ceremony, which was devoid of emotional narratives, was perceived a challenge to most couples.

“Today, we are gathered here to celebrate the life of Ngambi and Mukeli. They are a challenge to couples of today who have been unable to withstand challenges of marriage, leading to divorces and separation,” Edward Nani, a longtime neighbour stated.

The deceased left behind six children, 25 grand-children and 15 great grandchildren.