KNATCOM Supports Narok County to Develop Culture and Creative Policy
The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), in partnership with Narok County, conducted a two‑day capacity‑building workshop on 18–19 March 2026. The workshop aimed to support the county in developing the County Culture and Creative Industries Policy in line with UNESCO best practices.
The workshop was officially opened by Hon. Robert Simotwo, CECM for Tourism, Wildlife and Culture, who underscored the need for a comprehensive culture policy, improved documentation of cultural heritage, and recognition of culture and the creative industries as engines of local economic growth.
Participants included community leaders; representatives from the creative sector; the Chair of the Culture Committee at the Narok County Assembly, Hon. Moses Sikona, and Assembly staff; county government officials; representatives from cultural organizations; and experts from Maasai Mara University’s Department of Anthropology.
Guided by UNESCO cultural conventions and best practices, shared by Ms. Emily Njeru, Ag. Director, Culture Programme (KNATCOM), stakeholders identified policy priorities requiring county‑level action to protect and promote Maa culture within devolved functions.
The discussions were consultative and inclusive—spanning genders and age groups, professional backgrounds, and marginalized communities—to reflect the county’s diverse needs.With KNATCOM’s facilitation, national experts Ms. Milka Mugo (State Department of Culture) and Ms. Ann Gitonga of the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) supported the process, providing technical guidance that helped ensure alignment with national frameworks and public policy standards.
The team committed to finalizing the draft Culture and Creative Industries Policy by the end of the financial year. KNATCOM will continue to support devolution by sharing UNESCO best practices on promoting and protecting cultural heritage and fostering creativity for sustainable development.
