The government is set to launch Kenya’s National Dress by October 2024 as a celebration of Kenya’s heritage during Utamaduni Day.
Principal Secretary in the State Department for Culture, Arts and Heritage Ummi Bashir made the announcement during Utamaduni Day celebrations on Tuesday, October 10.
Bashir, who was speaking at the ceremony held at the Bomas of Kenya, further noted that the national dress would be ready by the following Utamaduni day Celebrations.
Moreover, the PS stated that the move would allow Kenyans to share in their diversity and heritage, which she noted was the source of unity.
“Kenya does not have a national dress do we, do we have a national dress? That is something that we are working on, and we promise by the next Utamaduni Day, we will consult, and we vow to have at least a Kenyan National Dress,” Bashir stated.
Why Celebrate Utamaduni Day
At the same time, she highlighted the achievement of celebrating the very first Utamaduni Day in the country.
Bashir stated that the celebrations reflected the struggles, triumph, and the shared experiences of Kenyans.
Further, she stated that it was important for Kenyans to embrace their differences including their food, music, dance and other forms of art.
“This is the first time that an actual cultural celebration has taken place in this great nation. This occasion celebrates our diverse heritage, cultural beliefs, customs that make up our beautiful country.
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“Therefore, the celebration of this day as Utamaduni day reflects a deeper understanding and appreciation of our cultural heritage. It is a celebration of our languages, our cuisines, our music, our art, our dances and the various expressions of who we are,” added the PS.
PS Bashir Explains Why the Ceremony Was Held at Bomas
At the same time, the PS stated that hosting the celebrations at the Bomas of Kenya was symbolic stating that it was a way passing the legacy of the forefathers to the future generation.
Further, she explained that Bomas of Kenya was a home for all Kenyans referencing to the Swahili word ‘boma’ meaning home.
“It is symbolic because Bomas is a home for the people of Kenya. It is our village and a beacon of cultural preservation.
“Also, it stands as a testament to the richness of our cultural diversity providing a space for the convergence of traditions from every corner of our great nation,” she stated.
Origin of Utamaduni Day
Marked on October 10, Utamaduni Day celebrates Kenya’s diversity, unity, and development through culture, cuisine, and community efforts.
The word Utamaduni is a Swahili term which translates to culture.
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However, originally the date, which was previously marked as Moi Day, was removed as a national holiday in 2010. In 2017, it was reinstated by a Court ruling.
Additionally, in 2020, it was transformed to Huduma Day, and later renamed Utamaduni Day to celebrate Kenya’s diversity and culture.
