Cultural dancers from Maara Constituency have received a major boost towards improving their livelihoods after receiving Sh400,000 to support a poultry farming project aimed at enhancing their economic well-being.
The funds were contributed by political leaders and well-wishers during this year’s Maara Cultural Festival held at Mugona YMCA Grounds.
The dancers, who had previously been appealing for financial support, expressed optimism that the initiative would help improve their living standards and provide a sustainable source of income beyond their participation in cultural activities.
The Maara Cultural Community-Based Organization (CBO), which brings together more than 20 cultural groups, plans to invest the funds in poultry farming.
Contributions included Sh220,000 from Governor Muthomi Njuki, Sh50,000 from Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki, Sh50,000 from Deputy Governor Nyaga Muisraeli, Sh20,000 from the former Tharaka-Nithi Governor Mbae Ragwa, and Sh20,000 from Tharaka MP Gitonga Murugara, among other donations from leaders and well-wishers.
Maara Constituency Cultural Ambassador Kimathi Ntumiiru described the achievement as a dream come true, noting that the group had spent years seeking support from leaders, stakeholders, and development partners to fund the initiative.
He explained that the project aims to provide each member with at least ten laying hens, enabling them to earn income through egg sales while also supplying eggs to local markets.
“This project will not only help members support themselves and their families, but it will also contribute to the county’s economy through increased agricultural production,” said Ntumiiru.
He added that proceeds from the poultry venture would also help support the 20 cultural groups, particularly in meeting transport and logistical costs when participating in cultural events and tours.
Ntumiiru further revealed that the CBO has introduced a table banking programme to enable members to access affordable loans for needs such as school fees while encouraging a culture of saving and financial discipline.
“We want this CBO to become a model organization that others can emulate. Through unity and commitment, we are confident that this initiative will succeed,” he said.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Culture and Vocational Training Dorothy Naivasha said the county government has established legal frameworks to ensure the continuity of cultural festivals beyond the current administration.
She noted that all groups that participated in the festival auditions would receive support from the county government through stipends.
“Our culture should strengthen coexistence and unity among communities rather than create divisions. These events provide an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together and celebrate their shared heritage,” she said.
Governor Muthomi Njuki reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting cultural activities, noting that the administration has financed the events from constituency-level auditions to the county finale at Ura Gate.
He said the county government will continue to facilitate dancers through stipends, accommodation, and transport allowances.
Deputy Governor Nyaga Muisraeli emphasized the importance of preserving culture as a way of life and urged young people to embrace and pass cultural values to future generations.
He encouraged residents to learn from and appreciate the diverse cultures represented in the county, including those of the Tharaka, Muthambi, and Mwimbi communities.
“The county government has been the backbone of these cultural festivals from the first season to the fourth season, and we will continue supporting culture because it is an important part of our identity,” said Muisraeli.
Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki, who also contributed to the fundraising initiative, said the strong participation of young people in cultural activities demonstrates the sector’s potential.
He praised the youth for their role in organizing and coordinating the Maara Cultural Festival and urged future administrations to give young people more leadership opportunities.
“The youth have shown great capability and commitment in preserving our traditions. They deserve opportunities to serve and contribute to the development of our communities,” he said.
By Dickson Mwiti and Beatrice Mwende
