National Museum appeals for early history artefacts

The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is asking Kenyans to donate cultural artefacts and other items, as it seeks to build a museum on the country's early history.

"NMK is desirous of acquiring relevant objects or memorabilia by way of donation, long-term loan or any other suitable arrangement," NMK says in a public appeal.

The proposed museum dubbed a 'Museum of Heroism', will include key aspects such as "the early history and peoples of Kenya, colonisation, independence [and] military history.."

"Such materials may include but not limited to photographs, films, unique literature and writings, newspaper cuttings, maps, info graphics, traditional weaponry, instruments of power, traditional musical instruments and trade merchandise, "NMK says.

It is also looking for traditional farm tools and equipment, body adornments, furniture, crafts, traditional attire, court artefacts, pass books and religious artefacts.

The National Museums and Heritage (Amendment) Bill, 2019 created the Kenya Heritage Authority, empowered to solicit and receive subscriptions, donations, devices whether of movable or immovable property under the Authority or subject to any trust.

The law assigned the responsibility of ancient and historical monuments of national importance to the National Government while responsibility of cultural activities public entertainment and public amenities was left to the County Governments and including museums.

Kenya’s historic artefacts have benefited from personal collections especially through the legacy of the first Vice President Joseph Murumbi famed for opening the first Pan African gallery on the African continent, African Heritage in 1972 through his private collection in partnership with Alan Donovan.