Leaders have urged the Nandi community to safeguard its cultural heritage and strengthen traditional institutions amid rapid modernization, saying indigenous values remain critical in promoting peace, unity and social cohesion.
The call was made during the installation of Augustine Kisorio as the new National Chairman of the Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders at the University of East Africa Baraton.
The colourful ceremony attracted elders from across the country, national and county government leaders, religious leaders and residents, underscoring the enduring influence of the Kaburwo Council as the custodian of Nandi traditions, cultural identity and community leadership.
For generations, the Nandi Kaburwo Council of Elders has served as the traditional institution responsible for promoting peace, resolving disputes, preserving cultural practices and advising leaders on issues affecting the welfare of the community.
Although formal government institutions now perform many administrative functions, the council continues to complement them by promoting reconciliation, family unity, responsible leadership and respect for cultural values.
Speaking after taking over from outgoing chairman Benjamin Kitur, Kisorio pledged to strengthen the council and deepen its engagement with government institutions, religious organisations and the wider community.
“Today is not about an individual but about our collective responsibility to preserve the heritage of the Nandi people. We shall work together to promote peace, mentor our young people, protect our cultural identity and offer objective counsel to leaders whenever called upon. The Kaburwo Council will remain non-partisan and committed to serving the interests of our people,” he said.
Kisorio said the council would continue promoting dialogue and reconciliation while mentoring the younger generation to appreciate the importance of culture, integrity and responsible citizenship.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei praised the elders for their continued contribution to national unity and stability, saying traditional institutions remain important partners in governance and development.
He urged the council to continue guiding young people by instilling values of discipline, integrity, patriotism and respect for cultural heritage.
“Our traditional institutions are an important pillar of our national identity. As government, we recognize the invaluable contribution that councils of elders make in conflict resolution, peace building and preserving our cultural heritage. I urge the Kaburwo Council to continue working closely with government in promoting unity, supporting development initiatives and mentoring the younger generation so that our rich traditions remain alive for generations to come,” Koskei said.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang congratulated Kisorio on his installation, describing the Kaburwo Council as one of the county’s most respected traditional institutions that has continued to unite communities despite rapid social transformation.
He said the county government would continue partnering with the council in promoting peace, environmental conservation, youth empowerment and community development programmes.
“Our elders are the custodians of our identity and our history. Their wisdom has guided our community through many generations and continues to provide solutions even in today’s changing world. We shall continue supporting cultural programmes that preserve our heritage while working with the council to promote peaceful coexistence, youth empowerment and sustainable development across Nandi County,” Sang said.
The installation ceremony blended traditional customs with modern leadership practices as elders dressed in traditional regalia conducted symbolic rites to mark the peaceful transfer of authority before Kisorio officially assumed office.
Traditional songs, dances and blessings accompanied the ceremony, highlighting the cultural significance of the leadership transition and the responsibility entrusted to the new chairman.
Over the years, the Kaburwo Council has remained instrumental in resolving land disputes, mediating family conflicts and promoting reconciliation through customary dispute resolution mechanisms rooted in dialogue and consensus.
Many residents continue to seek the elders’ intervention because of their emphasis on fairness, restorative justice and preserving relationships instead of deepening divisions.
The council has also expanded its role in addressing emerging social challenges, including drug and substance abuse, gender-based violence, family breakdown and declining respect for cultural values among young people.
Through mentorship forums and community outreach programmes, the elders encourage youth to embrace education, entrepreneurship, hard work and responsible citizenship while remaining proud of their cultural identity.
Participants observed that as globalization and urbanization continue to reshape society, traditional institutions such as the Kaburwo Council remain vital in preserving indigenous knowledge, language and governance systems while complementing modern state institutions.
Residents who attended the ceremony expressed confidence that Kisorio’s leadership would strengthen unity within the council and enhance collaboration with government, religious organisations and development partners in promoting peace, cultural preservation and sustainable development.
By Sammy Mwibanda
