Kapenguria Six Among 400 Heritage Sites Facing Extinction Due to Neglect.
Four hundred heritage sites across the country are at risk of extinction due to poor maintenance, as revealed to a House Committee. The Principal Secretary for Culture, Arts, and Heritage, Ummi Bashir, informed the National Assembly Committee on Sports and Culture that insufficient funding has hindered the regular upkeep of these historical landmarks.
Bashir cautioned that without urgent intervention, the country stood to lose a significant part of its history. She urged the committee, chaired by Dan Wanyama, to advocate for financial allocations aimed at the restoration and preservation of these sites.
According to her, the state of neglect has deterred both local and international tourists, with those who do visit expressing disappointment over the deteriorating conditions.
Bashir explained that the department has been allocated Sh3.54 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, though it requires Sh5.98 billion to implement all planned programs. Of the allocated budget, Sh3.45 billion is designated for recurrent expenditure, while Sh90 million is for development.
Some of the projects awaiting funding include the construction of the Wundanyi Resource Centre, the establishment of a music studio to support artists, the upgrading of the Kapenguria Six site, and the construction of the Marachi Cultural Centre.
The finalization of the Kiswahili Bill and the establishment of the National Kiswahili Council have also been stalled due to financial constraints.
Recognition of National Heroes
In response to concerns from Busia County MP Catherine Omanyo regarding the lack of recognition for national heroes such as renowned broadcaster Mambo Mbotela, Bashir stated that the department lacked the necessary funds for such honors.
She disclosed that a request for Sh50 million had been made for the establishment of a Heroes Fund to celebrate citizens who have significantly contributed to the nation’s legacy and urged the committee to support the funding request.
During the session, the committee underscored the need for the rehabilitation and conservation of historical sites. Suba South MP Caroli Omondi advised the department to explore global partnerships for additional financial support.
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He pointed out that international partners might be willing to assist in conserving these sites, complementing the government’s efforts in preservation.
Bashir appeared before the committee to present the department’s 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS). Sports and Culture Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya attended the meeting briefly before leaving for other engagements.
With the increasing deterioration of heritage sites, the department continues to push for more funding to ensure their preservation, highlighting the urgent need for both government and international support.
Kapenguria Six Among 400 Heritage Sites Facing Extinction Due to Neglect.
