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State announces plans to set up museum in Isiolo during Somali Cultural Festival

Participants showcase their wares during the Somali Cultural Festival in Isiolo on May 4, 2024. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

By Waweru Wairimu | 05 May 2024

Participants were treated to a taste of Somali culture ranging from traditional delicacies to songs and dances, dressing code and mock traditional weddings.

Culture and Heritage Principal Secretary Umi Bashir has announced plans by the national government to set up a Museum in Burat ward, Isiolo County for the preservation of the county's rich heritage.

She said the State will partner with the county government in the establishment and equipping of the centre which will allow all the 42 communities living in the county to showcase their culture that remains under threat due to technological advancements.

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"We will set aside funds to build the museum to allow communities to preserve and showcase their cultural artefacts," she said, adding that five acres of land had already been set aside for that work.

PS Umi spoke when she graced the Isiolo Somali Cultural Festival that brought together residents and leaders from Northern Kenya counties of Isiolo, Wajir, Garissa and Mandera.

Local women showcase their wares during the Somali Cultural Festival in Isiolo on May 4, 2024. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

Participants were treated to a taste of Somali culture ranging from traditional delicacies to songs and dances, dressing code and mock traditional weddings.

Social media influence

She stressed the need for Kenyan youth to be taught about their culture due to the growing influence of social media.

The cultural event was organised by Somali Midnimo women led by Chairperson Fani Mohammud.

Among the leaders who attended were host Governor Abdi Ibrahim Guyo and his Garissa counterpart Nathif Jama, Petroleum PS Mohammed Liban, Mandera Deputy Governor Dr Mohammud Ali, Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo, MPs Abdi Omar (Balambala) and Mumina Bonaya (Isiolo) and Mandera Gender Executive Sumeya Bishar.

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama takes a sip of camel milk during the Somali Cultural Festival in Isiolo on May 4, 2024. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

Governor Abdi announced that his administration will in December host a cultural week for all the communities living in Isiolo in the latest efforts to promote their culture.

"I also commit to ensure all communities have equal rights in my government," he assured.

Governor Nathif and Dr Mohammud stressed the need for the community to stay united to enhance their bargaining power.

"Let us also coexist with other communities and see how we can get into alliances with them to enhance our political power," Nathif said.

PS Mohammed implored Isiolo's elected leaders to put aside their differences and unite to serve the county residents.

Locals were taken through a camel milking exercise during the Somali Cultural Festival. (Photo: Waweru Wairimu)

"Unite Isiolo people and deliver on your mandate because that is what you were elected to do," he said.

Five people including former Isiolo Deputy Governor Simba Guleid, Midnimo Women Chairperson Fani Mohammud, Activist Anab Kasim and community leader Osman Shariff were recognised by the Somali community for their dedication to empathy and dialogue and promoting peace and harmony in the county.

"I am so happy to be recognised by the community for the work I have been doing. This is a testament that people recognise our contribution to the community and Isiolo County at large," Osman said.