Preserving cultural heritage remains a vital thread in the social fabric of any nation. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi emphasized this during the Mbeere Cultural Festival at St. Bhakita Siakago Girls School, where he served as the Chief Guest. Muturi’s remarks highlighted the critical role of cultural preservation in unifying Kenya’s diverse communities and strengthening the nation’s identity.
Addressing attendees, Muturi reiterated that Kenya’s 2010 Constitution unequivocally recognizes and protects cultural diversity as a cornerstone of national unity. He emphasized that acknowledging and cherishing one’s culture is not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to the strength and resilience of a society. “Culture is the foundation of every state and a culmination of various civilizations,” Muturi observed. His message underscored the idea that culture is not merely a relic of the past but a dynamic force that can guide present and future generations.
The Mbeere Cultural Festival provided a platform for the celebration of traditional practices, language, and art unique to the Mbeere community, a marginalized group within Kenya. Muturi’s presence and his words were a poignant reminder of the importance of inclusivity in national development.
Unity Beyond Politics
Muturi also seized the opportunity to address local concerns, urging residents of Mbeere to prioritize unity over divisive politics. He cautioned against the distractions of petty political rivalries, emphasizing that they do little to advance the well-being of communities. Instead, he encouraged a focus on collective goals that foster growth and development.
For the younger generation, Muturi offered a modern perspective on cultural preservation. He encouraged youth to leverage social media platforms constructively by creating and sharing content that promotes Kenya’s rich cultural heritage. “Social media is a powerful tool. Let’s use it to tell our stories, preserve our culture, and educate the world about who we are,” he urged.
Voices of Support
Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku echoed Muturi’s sentiments, highlighting the connection between cultural preservation and the survival of marginalized communities like Mbeere. He noted that safeguarding culture is integral to protecting the unique identities of such groups and ensuring their voices are not lost in the broader national discourse.
Adding to the dialogue, Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi called on the people of Embu to align themselves with the government’s agenda. He expressed confidence in the leadership of President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, asserting that their administration holds the promise of tangible benefits for the people of the region.
A Broader National Narrative
Kenya’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest assets, yet it remains under threat from modernization, urbanization, and globalization. The constitution’s provisions for cultural recognition are a framework for the nation to celebrate its multiplicity of identities while fostering unity.
Muturi’s call to action resonates beyond the confines of the Mbeere community. It is a clarion call to all Kenyans to take pride in their heritage, to pass it on to future generations, and to use modern tools like technology to amplify its reach. Events like the Mbeere Cultural Festival serve as important reminders of the richness of Kenya’s traditions and the need to actively work towards their preservation.
As the nation progresses, the challenge remains to balance modernization with cultural preservation. It is a delicate act, but one that is crucial for maintaining the country’s unique identity. CS Muturi’s emphasis on unity, constructive use of social media, and cultural pride offers a roadmap for achieving this balance.
In the words of the Public Service CS, “A nation that forgets its roots cannot stand tall in the future.” His message is clear: cultural preservation is not merely an option but a necessity for Kenya’s unity and progress.
