By Philip Barasa, DevReporter, Busia County
Nestled in the heart of Busia County’s Teso North Sub-County, is a historical site that transcends time. It echoes the stories of those who have called it home for generations.
The Kakapel Monument Museum and Iteso Cultural Centre is an archaeological treasure trove dating back between 2000-4000 years. It stands as a testament to Kenya’s rich history and culture.
Yet beyond the ancient art and fascinating artefacts of the historical site, it is the voices of the local community members that truly bring its rich heritage to life.
A Monument Revived
Once under-utilised and overlooked, the story of Kakapel historical site began to shift when it was declared a National Monument in 2004. The declaration marked the dawn of a partnership between the National Museums of Kenya, the local community, and the Trust of African Rock Art.
Located just a stone throw away from the Kenya-Uganda border, the monument and museum is a series of three shelters nestled at the base of a granite outcrop. Its red finger-painted geometric designs and animal depictions, believed to be the work of the Twa hunter-gatherer people, whisper tales of a bygone era.
“This place is our connection to our ancestors,” remarks Josephat Odiya, a local elder whose roots run deep within the Iteso community. “It is where the spirits of our ancestors reside, where our history speaks to us.”
Bridging the Past and Present
While the monument is a silent storyteller, the nearby Iteso Cultural Centre amplifies the vibrant pulse of the community.
Traditional cuisine like Ajono, dried meat, and indigenous vegetables tempt the senses, offering a taste of the past.
However, it is the artistry of the local people that breathes life into this centre. Rock art, craftwork, and dances reveal a continuum of traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Celine Opollo, a young artist with a passion for preserving her heritage, shares: “When I paint, I feel like I’m weaving the threads of my ancestors into the canvas. It’s a way of keeping them alive.”
The Community’s Role
The heart of this historical and cultural narrative beats within the community’s ownership and management of the centre.
The community’s custodianship ensures that the community’s legacy thrives and its stories echo on. “We’re not just maintaining the centre,” Luke, a local, emphasises. “We’re safeguarding our identity, our culture, and our future.”
Voices Heard: The Government’s Response
The local County Government, recognising the significance of this site as a hub of cultural heritage and economic opportunity, has taken proactive steps to preserve it.
With funds allocated for preservation and beautification, the County Government is responding to the community’s concerns and aspirations.
The government’s commitment to ensuring Kakapel remains a treasure for posterity is an embodiment of the spirit of unity between the community and the local administration.
A Unified Purpose
The County Government’s endeavour aligns seamlessly with the Kenyan Constitution. The Constitution enshrines the right to culture and recognises the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Furthermore, Kakapel Monument Museum and Iteso Cultural Centre exemplify the aspirations of Kenya Vision 2030’s social pillar. By empowering communities, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable tourism, the project paints a vivid picture of a harmonious future.
As you journey through the Kakapel Monument Museum and Iteso Cultural Centre, remember that you are not just exploring history – you are witnessing the culmination of a community’s resilience and devotion. Each artefact, each brushstroke, and each voice that echoes through the air, tell a tale of unity, heritage, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
