Kenya commemorates International Minorities Day as government reaffirms commitment to justice, equality and inclusion.

PHOTO: During the International Minorities Day at Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 19...The International Minorities Day with a vibrant celebration at the Bomas of Kenya brought together over 2,000 representatives from marginalized communities across the country. 

The event featured traditional music, dance, and storytelling, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kenya’s minority groups with exhibitions displayed at the venue celebrated the diverse traditions of the country’s marginalized communities.

Aimed at highlighting their struggles and contributions of Kenya's minorities while reaffirming the nation's commitment to justice, equality, and inclusion.

Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, reflected on Kenya’s progress in addressing injustices faced by minority groups. She highlighted the contributions of Makhan Singh, a pivotal but often overlooked figure in Kenya’s independence movement, and the Ogiek community, whose landmark court victory secured recognition of their ancestral land rights after decades of advocacy.

“Makhan Singh took bold risks at a time when independence seemed unattainable, organizing across racial and religious divides for Kenya’s freedom,” Miano stated.

Furthermore, CS Miano noted the importance of constitutional provisions that safeguard marginalized groups, specifically citing Articles 27, 56, and 100, which address equality, affirmative action, and political representation. 

“To truly honor our Constitution, we must create an environment where all communities, regardless of their size or history, feel recognized, empowered, and valued,” she added.

Harriet Chigai, Presidential Advisor on Women and Children, echoed the sentiments, drawing attention to the systemic challenges that marginalized communities face, particularly in accessing healthcare, education, and basic amenities.

“For far too long, critical services like healthcare and education have been out of reach for many marginalized communities, This administration is committed to changing that and We are saying no more to exclusion and inequality. Said chigai.”

Subsequently community leaders expressed optimism about the government’s efforts, acknowledging that while challenges remain, the event symbolized a significant step forward in addressing historical exclusion.

“Today, we celebrate Kenya’s minorities, but this must go beyond symbolism. By living up to the promise of our Constitution equality, justice, and inclusion we can build the prosperous, free nation we aspire to be".