Bomas of Kenya suspends cultural shows for two months to make improvements
The suspension comes at a time when MPs have raised concerns over a "secretive" plan to upgrade Bomas of Kenya into a modern conference centre, questioning the source of funding and the lack of transparency surrounding the project.
Bomas of Kenya has announced a temporary suspension of its cultural performances for two months to improve its services.
“We will be taking a two-month break from offering our cultural services to introduce improved services and products that will elevate your cultural experience with us,” Bomas of Kenya said in a statement.
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The organisation on Monday assured visitors that the break would allow for enhancements that would provide a better cultural experience when operations resume.
While on-site performances will be on hold, Bomas of Kenya confirmed that it will continue offering off-site cultural services, including traditional dance performances.
“We are still offering off-site services, including traditional dance performances among others,” the notice stated.
Bomas of Kenya encouraged the public to stay engaged through its social media platforms and website for updates on upcoming changes.
The organisation also expressed gratitude for the continued support from its patrons and promised an enriched experience upon reopening. For bookings and inquiries about off-site services, customers have been directed to reach out via email.
Upgrade plan concerns
The suspension comes at a time when Members of Parliament have raised concerns over a "secretive" plan to upgrade Bomas of Kenya into a modern conference centre, questioning the source of funding and the lack of transparency surrounding the project.
Earlier this month, the MPs stated that the house had not been given clear details about the project’s budget, timelines, or financing arrangements.
A report by the National Assembly’s Liaison Committee revealed that the government has not provided sufficient information on how the project will be funded.
“The Bomas of Kenya is currently in the initial stages of constructing an ultra-modern conference facility. However, the State Department for Culture, Arts and Heritage has not furnished the [Liaison] Committee with clear funding modalities for the project, including projected costs, source and funding arrangements and timelines,” the report stated.
Despite these concerns, a dispatch from the Cabinet last Tuesday announced that construction would begin next week.
However, the project does not appear in the country’s budget books, including the second mini-budget for the fiscal year ending in June, which Parliament recently approved.
According to the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act 2015, a government body must have a clearly defined and approved budget before beginning any tendering process.
Bomas of Kenya Ltd was established in 1971 by the Government of Kenya under the Companies Act (CAP 486), Laws of Kenya, as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kenya Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), currently Kenya Development Corporation (KDC).
It was created to preserve, showcase, and promote the rich and diverse cultures of Kenya’s ethnic groups and to act as a tourist attraction centre.
As the only national body mandated in cultural tourism, the institution plays a key role in safeguarding Kenya’s cultural heritage and providing guidance, consultation and advocacy across sectors.
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