The Kenyan government has revealed that it is putting a solid institutional framework in place to protect and promote the country’s rich and diverse traditions.
President William Ruto said cultural assets will enhance cohesion and stimulate economic growth.
He noted that focus on culture will propel cultural industries, creative economy and tourism and expand opportunities for the youth.
“Our Plan identifies the creative economy as well as culture and heritage to be highly promising drivers of transformation and employment creation,” he said.
To achieve this, President Ruto said, the government is implementing robust legislative bills, including the Culture Bill approved by the Cabinet last week.
“Others like the Creative Economy Framework, National Kiswahili Council of Kenya Bill, the Kenya Film Bill, the National Heritage and Museums Bill, are currently being developed,” he said.
He made the remarks during the Turkana Cultural and Tourism Festival in Lodwar town, Rift Valley.
The event brought together community members from South Sudan, Uganda and Ethiopia.
He observed that the festival has promoted peace and security and deepened regional integration and cooperation.
President Ruto said the government will spend Ksh800 million (USD$5.4 million) to enhance electricity connectivity in Turkana County to spur economic growth.
The National Police Reserve (NPR), he added, will help police officers manage the security of the region.
“We cannot allow a few people to cause insecurity and derail our development agenda,” he said.
The Kenyan leader said three new sub-counties, Suguta, Lokiriama and Aroo, will be established in the county.
