CS Tobiko calls on Maasai to keep their traditions – Kenya News Agency
Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko called on the Maa people not to relax their desire to preserve their rich culture for posterity.
Tobiko who spoke yesterday during her visit to the youth graduation ceremony of the Ildamat clan commonly known as’Manyatta‘in Narok East sub-county said that Maa culture has united all Maasai living in Kenya.
He reiterated that President Uhuru Kenyatta recognizes the Maa culture hence the reason he sent him to represent him at the graduation ceremony which saw hundreds of young Maasai men pass another age.
He called on the Maa community to avoid backward cultural practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) and early marriages which continue to pull the community back.
“We must stay united as we always have been. The Maa community of Narok, Kajiado, Laikipia and Samburu are one. We should give up on the people who come to divide us, â€said Tobiko.
The Cabinet Secretary warned the community to be vigilant in the face of Covid-19 disease, saying it is real and affects many families.
“I am happy to see that you followed the protocol established by Covid-19 during the season you were in Manyatta. It is wise that you continue to follow regulations to keep disease at bay, â€Tobiko reiterated. Narok East Sub-County Deputy Commissioner Eric Murevu praised the Maa culture but asked them to be aware of the regressive practices that are illegal.
He called on the Maa community to take advantage of free primary education to take all children to school.
Narok County Culture Director Ms. Violent Sikawa said the county will document every heritage for future generations.
She reiterated that Maasai traditions, styles and way of life are internationally marketable, calling on the Maa people to continue to preserve their culture with great passion.
“Maa culture is a brand in its own right. We will propagate our culture for posterity so that our children can enjoy what we value today, â€said Ms. Sikawa.
By Ann Salaton