BY ReporterÂ
The national government has promised to support Kwale County to build the Kwale Heritage and Cultural Centre known as Bomas of Kwale.
The cultural centre is expected to cost sh 50 Million. The construction is set to start next year.
It will be constructed at Diani in Msambweni to help conserve culture and traditions and boost tourism.
Speaking during the second and final day of the Kwale Annual Cultural Competitions, Mining CS Salim Mvurya said the government has a special budget that will help the county realize the establishment of the much-awaited cultural centre.
“The government recognizes the importance of culture and be assured that it will put a hand in the construction of the Bomas of Kwale,” he said.
Mvurya said the county will also get a major boost in conserving and developing all the Kayas in the region.
He said that heritage and culture are the backbone of the country.
The CS said it is crucial to appreciate cultural diversity to foster unity and economic development.
He, however, warned residents against using the culture and traditions to divide people on tribal alignments.
Mvurya said tribalism is a matter of the past and should be buried forever.
The CS said the government is also working hard to improve maritime and shipping to create employment opportunities and growth of the economy along the coastline line.
He said the government has trained at least 4000 coxswains and wants to increase the number by next year.
Governor Fatuma Achani said the cultural event was meant to promote unity and appreciate cultural diversities.
She said the county also intended to educate the young generation on the different cultures to enhance tolerance and resilience.
Achani said the Bomas of Kwale will play a key role in uplifting tourism and preserving the rich Kwale cultures.
The governor urged the locals to continue to live in peace and work together for more development.
It is the ninth time for the county to hold the Kwale Cultural Competitions.
According to Achani, the move is to help identify and nurture talents and market the county.
At least 10, 104 artists participated and 1995 of them reached the finals under different categories.
