Octogenarians call for setting up of museum in Kisii county

Some of Kisii’s elderly women and men gathered in Ibeno ward, Nyaribari Chache, on a rare occasion, only seen during a late Cabinet Minister’s tenure more than 20 years ago.

Clutching their walking sticks clumsily, they walked into the compound of the area’s MCA, Steve Arika, just as they had done at the late Cabinet Minister Simeon Nyachae’s home.

As they took their seats, the more than 300 octogenarians stole glances at each other, perhaps in remembrance of their early days.

Although their voices trembled when saying hello, they seemed not to have given up; they have lived longer but not any better. All they dream of when their time comes is to rest when they get to God’s presence.

Their host, Arika, said he is advocating for the county government to advance the community’s culture through the promotion and development of visual arts and creative works through capacity-building exhibitions, culture exchange programmes, and other promotion strategies.

“We need to establish a museum that will become an umbrella organisation for the community. This will form an integral part of the country’s quest for cohesion and integration. The museum will also provide a welcoming, stimulating, and diverse learning environment through facilities, artists, classes, exhibits, and workshops.”

According to Arika, the octogenarians in the community can help preserve the heritage, traditions, and culture of the Abagusii.

Protection and support

Kisii Governor Simba Arati’s wife, May, graced the occasion and called for the protection and support of the elderly people.

“A few years to come, we will need these people to give the community direction. Let us not kill them.”

The octogenarians said they’re ready for consultations on how the community’s culture and tradition can be shared for the betterment of the next generations.

Thomas Oresi, aged 85, said those in the community who are elderly must be prepared to voice their concerns about issues affecting society.

“We are witnessing the loss of an entire generation to alcohol, crime, and other vices. Our sons and daughters have dropped out of school and returned to chang’aa dens. Who will address these issues? Will they ever heed their parents?”

He further added, “We require more such meetings at the grassroots level.”

Oresi also advocated for the establishment of a museum to help preserve the community’s heritage.

The Nairobi Museum remains a national institution and continues to house Kenya’s historical artefacts, monuments, and historical sites.

According to records from the National Museums of Kenya, the country currently has about 24 museums in 15 counties across the nation, and an additional 32 counties would need to establish their museums. 

Isaac Nunda, 88, a former clinical officer, said the current generation can learn from the octogenarians.