CS Malonza Commends Tharaka Nithi’s Rich Cultural Heritage at Ura Gate Festival -14/9/2023.

The Cabinet Secretary (CS), Peninah Malonza, has today attended the 5th Edition of the Ura Gate Cultural Festival in Tharaka Nithi County.

Speaking passionately about the importance of preserving cultural heritage, the CS highlighted the festival’s significant role in national development and unity.

Malonza commended the festival’s participants for their dedication in showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, literature, and delectable cuisines. She emphasized the festival’s alignment with the constitution’s mandate to promote national and cultural expressions, underlining her Ministry’s wholehearted support for this noble initiative.

“Cultural festivals like this are not mere celebrations; they are the essence of our identity and a unifying force. They safeguard the invaluable cultural legacies of our communities and serve as reservoirs of wisdom and knowledge for younger generations,” the Cabinet Secretary said.

Acknowledging the collaboration between her Ministry and Tharaka Nithi County, Malonza highlighted the Ministry’s efforts in preserving and promoting indigenous knowledge and traditional foodstuffs. She also expressed her commitment to expediting the construction of the Ura Gate Cultural Centre, which promises to enrich the tourism offerings in the Mount Kenya Circuit.

Regarding legal and policy frameworks, the Cabinet Secretary revealed that the Languages of Kenya Policy, Culture Bill (2023), and Heritage and Museums Bill (2023) were nearing enactment, providing comprehensive guidelines for cultural sector development and livelihood improvement.

In partnership with the county government, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage is actively profiling key attractions in Tharaka Nithi, including wildlife, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. These will be packaged into signature tourism experiences, fostering economic growth and cultural preservation.

Addressing the longstanding issue of human-wildlife conflicts in the region, Hon. Malonza highlighted the government’s success in reducing such conflicts by 80% through a comprehensive fencing project.

Also present was, Tharaka Nithi Governor, Muthomi Njuki, Kenya Wildlife Service Chairperson, Lt. Gen (Rtd) Walter Koipaton, Hon. Kareke Mbiuki, among other guests.