By reporter
A non-governmental organization WeWorld has intensified efforts to promote peace and national cohesion along the coastal strip of Kenya.
Through its Kujenga Amani program the NGO is using cultural diversity to foster unity and anhance development among the coastal communities.
The Kujenga Amani project coordinator Livingstone Nyando said that culture continues to play an important role in strengthening peace.
He said that they advocate for the adoption of positive cultural values and practices to raise an upright society.
“Because of the essence of culture, people used to resolve disputes peacefully and live happy lives in the past,” he said.
According to Nyando, indiscipline and insecurity among youth are on the rise as a result of a disregard for cultural and traditional values.
He said that embracing cultural diversity will help bring self-awareness and reduce social vices and promote unity.
Nyando said different cultures and traditions must be taught in schools to create understanding and tolerance.
He claimed that the younger generation is misguided because they are unaware of their cultures and traditions.
The officer said that the children, in turn, adopt foreign cultures that are incompatible with the African lifestyle.
He praised Kenya’s constitution and government for prioritizing cultural diversity and conservation, as well as highlighting their importance to social cohesion and development.
Kwale County Assembly Chairperson for Sports, culture and Community Affairs Elizabeth Mwangolo urged residents to adopt good cultures and traditions that do not undermine women but promote gender equality.
She stated that there are good cultures that, when embraced, can promote love, and unity, and bring about fair opportunities.
Mwangolo said that the Kwale County Assembly is working on laws to support the preservation of various cultures and traditions for socioeconomic gains.
“We are ready to create laws that will strengthen the protection of our rich cultures and traditions,” said Mwangolo.
The MCA said that their goal is to empower youth through cultural conservation for job creation.
According to her, UNESCO data show that 48 million people have secured jobs in the cultural sector across the globe.
Diani Kaya elder Samson Beja said recognizing different cultures and traditions plays a crucial role in society.
He said cultures create a sense of belonging and foster unity.
According to Beja, it also helps the younger generation understand their heritage and dispels myths about different cultures and traditions.
