The Tharaka Nithi County Government will establish small museums in each constituency to preserve and promote the county’s cultural heritage, Governor Muthomi Njuki has announced.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of a two-day Chuka Igambang’ombe Cultural Festival at Kaanwa Chiefs’ Camp, Njuki said the museums will showcase cultural artifacts, traditions and the history of communities across the county while serving as learning centres for residents, students and visitors.
The governor directed the County Department of Culture to allocate funds for the initiative in the next county budget, saying the project is intended to safeguard the county’s rich heritage for future generations.
“We must not allow our culture to disappear because it defines who we are. Our children should know their traditions and heritage,” Njuki said, expressing concern that many young people have limited knowledge of their cultural roots.
He called on parents, elders and community leaders to take a leading role in passing cultural values, customs and traditions from one generation to another.
Njuki said the county government would continue supporting community-based organisations, artists and cultural groups to strengthen efforts aimed at preserving and promoting local traditions.
He noted that cultural festivals provide important platforms for celebrating identity, promoting unity and educating younger generations about their heritage.
The governor also announced that the county’s flagship Ura Gate Cultural Festival will be held in August, with the exact date to be communicated later. He said the event will bring together communities from across Tharaka Nithi to celebrate the county’s cultural diversity through performances, exhibitions and traditional activities.
Commending the success of the Chuka Igambang’ombe Cultural Festival, Njuki said the large turnout and colourful performances reflected residents’ commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
He praised the 25 cultural dance groups, artists, organisers and residents who participated in the festival for keeping traditional practices alive and encouraging cultural appreciation among young people.
The governor also appealed to residents to protect wildlife by avoiding the killing of wild animals, saying conservation is essential in preserving Kenya’s natural heritage for future generations.
On leadership, Njuki cautioned residents against embracing politics based on regional or clan interests, saying no constituency can elect leaders without support from others.
Instead, he urged voters to evaluate leaders based on their development record, integrity and commitment to serving all residents equally, regardless of their place of origin.
Maara Member of Parliament Kareke Mbiuki said annual cultural festivals play a vital role in preserving traditions while strengthening community identity, unity and social cohesion.
Mbiuki commended the county government for supporting cultural groups and organising constituency cultural festivals, saying the initiative would help safeguard Tharaka Nithi’s rich cultural heritage for generations to come.
By Christine Ngitori and Glory Kiende
