Kenya’s commitment to protecting its cultural and natural heritage received international recognition after Kelvin Somoire from Kajiado was celebrated in Rome at the historic Palazzo Poli. Somoire was among 30 professionals from 26 African countries and Italy honoured during the first anniversary of a landmark UNESCO initiative under the Mattei Plan for Africa.
The initiative, launched a year ago, seeks to strengthen Africa’s capacity in heritage management by equipping professionals with the necessary tools and expertise to handle the complex process of nominating, managing and preserving world heritage sites. Through this program, participants gain vital skills in sustainable conservation and evaluation of long-term impacts on heritage sites.
The Rome ceremony marked a major milestone for UNESCO and its partners, celebrating professionals who have now become part of an interconnected network of heritage experts across Africa. Their mission is to champion the safeguarding of the continent’s diverse treasures, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from Africa’s cultural and natural wealth.
Somoire’s recognition places Kajiado on the global stage, highlighting the county’s contribution to the broader effort of heritage preservation and sustainable cultural development.
By Benedict Aoya
