Kenya, under the leadership of Principal Secretary State Department of Culture, Ummi Bashir, is actively working towards the repatriation of its stolen cultural artifacts and colonial archives.
This initiative is part of a broader global movement, to rectify historical injustices protect cultural heritage.
of 1970 UNESCO convention, which provides a framework for combating the illicit trafficking of cultural artifacts.
The 1970 UNESCO deliberations Emphasize the importance of strengthening the legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the illicit trade of cultural artifacts and to protect cultural sovereignty.
The delegation’s visit to London National Archives and British Museum signifies a pivotal moment in Kenya‘s efforts to reclaim its stolen heritage and rewrite its narrative.
The campaign that was trending the better part of Wednesday 15/5/2024 on social platforms known as #ReturnOfOurStolenProperty, is supported by various stakeholders and emphasizes the significance of cultural heritage as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting people to their roots and guiding them towards a more inclusive and enlightened future.
Kenyans from all walks of life came out in support of the PS Ummi Bashir, And congratulated her for the success in repatriation of 37 cultural artifacts to the Mijikenda Community known as the VIGANGO, from the State of Illinois Museum, in line with the 1970 Convention.
The seemingly simple and quiet PS who doubles up as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, has gone viral and Kenyans have recognized her efforts and declared that “PS Ummi Bashir Delivers” , after the news broke on the topic.
According to PS Bashir, Cultural heritage is among the priceless and irreplaceable inheritance, not only of each nation, but also of humanity as a whole. The loss, through theft, damage, clandestine excavations, illicit transfer or trade, of its invaluable and exceptional contents constitutes an impoverishment of the cultural heritage of all nations and peoples of the world and infringes upon the fundamental human rights to culture and development.
More to follow…
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