Narok County Department of Education has handed over functions of the Directorate of Culture to the Tourism Department in a bid to enhance culture services.
Narok County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Education Robert Simotwo said the handing over was occasioned by the need to align functions better for improved service delivery.
“We have today officially transferred all cultural assets and personnel to the Department of Tourism. The decision follows thorough consultation with stakeholders and is for the good of the county,” he said.
He encouraged the Tourism Department to prioritize the ongoing Indigenous Knowledge Documentation and Digitization programme, describing it as a vital step towards cultural preservation.
On his part, the Narok Tourism Chief Officer (CO) Samuel Ndorko noted that culture is a major key contributor to the tourism sector and called for collaboration in executing the new mandate given to his department.
“I urge the team from my department and that from the Education Department to embrace teamwork so as to enhance service delivery,” stated the CO.
Present during the event was Chief Officer for Education Simon Kurraru, Chief Officer for Sports and Youth Affairs Pesi Ntari and Director of Culture Violet Sikawa.
The Culture Department provides socio-economic benefits by promoting its diverse heritage through festivals and events that fosters cultural preservation. This supports tourism and creates jobs to the local communities.
The department also contributes to community cohesion by facilitating cultural exchange, empowering local artisans and ensuring that communities benefit from traditional assets and indigenous knowledge.
By Ann Salaton
