Kaya council hosts cultural leaders at Coast

By NGUMBAO KITHI

Kaya Council of Elders at the Coast hosted five cultural leaders to cement their pledge to work together for the development of the country.

The elders led by Trade Minister and Matuga MP Chirau Mwakwere hosted the Nabongo Mumia King Peter Mumia, Luo Council of Elders Chairman Riaga Ogalo, Njuri Ncheke Chairman Phares Rutere, Samuel Thuita of the Kikuyu Council of Elders and Giriama King Charo Menza Tuva.

During the daylong function at Mombasa’s Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) showground, Mr Mwakwere said the decision to bring the leaders together was meant to fight the suspicion that existed among communities.

"We have decided to invite the other communities to learn and understand the culture of the Miji kenda," he said.

Resolved problems

The visitors were taken around symbolic nine villages of the Miji kenda to appreciate how the community resolved problems in the past.

"This is just the beginning. We shall extend these cultural activities all over the country and unite this country," he said.

Businessman Paul Kamlesh Patni, who was among the guests, said the move to directly engage cultural leaders was meant to unite the communities and help them grow economic ties.

He said the Libyan President, Muammar Gaddafi, started the initiative to promote peace in Africa by empowering African kingdoms.

Mr Salah Din represented President Gaddafi at the function.

Meanwhile, the Kaya elders endorsed Assistant Minister Francis Baya as a suitable candidate to run for the governorship.

Led by Kazungu Jogolo, they said Mr Baya was the right candidate to head the regional government.

They vowed to give him the necessary support in his bid.

Baya has served as Coast PC, Lands PS and High Commissioner to India.

"The leaders have resolved to back you for the position of Kilifi governor," said Jogolo.

The Immigration assistant minister, who said he would ably lead the county, is the first to openly declare his interest in the post.

The elders further said they were now focusing on the senator’s position and also on women representatives. However, a political activist Ken Chonga said the process of identifying candidates to vie for the top seats in Kilifi should involve all stakeholders in the county.