In a bid to bolster cultural development, Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo yesterday convened a consultative meeting with cultural elders from the Tiriki and Terik communities.
The meeting, held at the county headquarters, focused on key cultural development initiatives aimed at empowering local communities and safeguarding traditional practices.
Among the core issues discussed were support and funding for the Tiriki and Terik traditional circumcision festivals and strengthening of cultural festivals at sub-county levels to boost cultural pride and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Also discussed is the proposed construction of a cultural centre for the Terik community, equipping and operationalising Shiru Cultural and Shamakhokho Resource Centres and documentation and digitisation of cultural heritage assets from both communities.
Besides, the governor was requested to support the Lutirichi Book Writing Initiative, an effort aimed at preserving oral literature and historical narratives.
Governor Ottichilo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity as a pillar of development, noting that safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems is vital for community identity and cohesion.
“We are proud of the rich traditions of the Tiriki and Terik people. As a county, we are determined to ensure their cultural assets are not only preserved but also harnessed for education and tourism purposes,” said Dr. Ottichilo.
The governor also emphasised the need for structured support for cultural institutions and resource centres to enable meaningful participation of youth in traditional knowledge systems.
Notable elders present at the meeting included John Bor, Morris Ingati, and Wycliffe Sakwa Mmaitsi, who lauded the county government’s efforts and pledged continued collaboration in realising the cultural development agenda.
By Ian Mugamangi
