Trans Nzoia County Government has taken over full ownership and management of Kitale National Museum from the National Government.
While confirming the transition, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture, and Tourism Stanley Kirui, said the move was long overdue.
Mr Kirui added that under local management, interests of the people of Trans Nzoia who enjoy diverse cultural backgrounds will be served. It would also help promote cultural preservation for posterity.
Following formalization of the transition process, Kirui stated the county will immediately embark on upgrading of the museum, which opened its doors in 1924, to the level where it would play the broader goal of preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
While the development may slow “staff rationalization and deployment”, the museum’s current 19 staff members would be included on the county’s payroll.
“The transition will not only help transform the museum to a hub for cultural diversity but it will also help boost tourism in a County known for its scenic beauty and historical significance,” County Officer for Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture, and Tourism Jane Wachwenge, said.
She added that the county has put in place plans to ensure that cultural homesteads are built within the museum’s premises to ensure the rich cultural heritage of the 42 tribes within the County are showcased.
The Museum’s curator, Frederick Palapala described the transition as a promising moment saying that it provides an opportunity for the transformation of the institution to a beacon of cultural pride and historical awareness. By Isaiah Nayika/KNA
