Petals of Blood

Novel | Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
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What did the people do to end the drought?

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What did the people do to end the drought? [2018] ✪✪✪

In Ngugi wa Thiong’o’s (1938-2025) “Petals of Blood” (1977), the people of Ilmorog suffer from a long and terrible drought. Their crops dry up, and their animals die of hunger. The villagers lose hope, but soon, guided by Karega, Wanja, Abdulla, and Munira, they take bold action to save their land.

Suffering and Superstition: The drought makes Ilmorog helpless. There is no rain, no food, and no hope. Many villagers believe that Abdulla’s donkey brings bad luck. The elders even decide to kill it to end the drought. But Karega, Munira, and Wanja oppose this idea. They convince everyone that killing the donkey will not change nature. 

Karega’s Practical Idea: Karega shows true leadership in this crisis. He tells the villagers that the drought is not caused by any curse but by natural and social neglect. He says they should seek help from their MP, Nderi wa

Riera, in Nairobi. He says, 

“I believe we can save the donkey and save the community.” 

This idea inspires the villagers to fight their hardship with action, not superstition.

The Journey to the City: The people form a small delegation and begin their journey to Nairobi. Wanja, Abdulla, Munira, and Karega lead the team. The long walk becomes a test of their patience and unity. Along the way, they face hunger, thirst, and humiliation, but they never lose courage. When they finally reach the city, their efforts draw national attention and bring rain and support to Ilmorog.

Thus, the people of Ilmorog end the drought through unity and courage. Instead of blind belief, they choose reason and action. 

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Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o
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from Petals of Blood