News Categories: Tourism, Culture and Social Welfare

Nandi County has moved to strengthen its tourism and hospitality industry with the official launch of the Nandi County Tourism and Hospitality Association. The event, held Friday at Reevonia Inn, marks a significant step toward creating a unified platform for collaboration, advocacy, and promotion of the region as a competitive travel destination.

The newly formed association brings together hoteliers and key tourism stakeholders with the goal of enhancing service standards, raising the visibility of local attractions, and stimulating economic growth through tourism development.

Presiding over the launch, the County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Industrialization and Enterprise Development, Isaiah Ketter, reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting tourism enterprises. He emphasized the administration’s focus on creating an enabling environment for investment and sector growth.

Dr. Nicholas Kiget, Director of Reevonia Inn, was appointed as the association’s chairperson. In his remarks, Dr. Kiget underscored the importance of unity among tourism players in delivering quality services, forging stronger partnerships, and unlocking opportunities within the hospitality industry.

The launch also featured a sensitization forum where officers from the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) guided members on the Authority’s mandate, facility classification, accreditation requirements, and compliance standards – all aimed at boosting credibility and competitiveness.

Security and compliance were also key topics. The Deputy OCS addressed the need for stronger security collaboration between hospitality establishments and law enforcement to ensure the safety of visitors and investors. Meanwhile, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Station Manager briefed members on tax obligations, stressing the importance of compliance in supporting national development. Officers from the Tourism Levy provided additional guidance on levy requirements and how contributions aid in tourism promotion, marketing, and capacity building.

The event drew more than 65 hoteliers and tourism actors, reflecting strong commitment to improving industry standards and positioning Nandi County as a preferred destination for visitors, investors, and partners. Adding to the occasion were officials from sister associations in Nakuru and Uasin Gishu counties, led by Vice Chairman Koech and Michael Ouma respectively, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration in advancing tourism growth and sharing best practices.

County officials reaffirmed that Nandi County remains dedicated to working closely with industry stakeholders to enhance tourism development, create employment opportunities, and drive sustainable economic growth.

The county government of Nandi through the department of culture, gender and social welfare joined the world to mark world Day for cultural diversity for dialogue and development, a day observed annually on 21st May in order to promote intercultural dialogue and diversity.

It was Pomp and colour as different and diverse cultural groups turned up for the national event held at Koitalel Samoei University in Mosoriot.

There was an exhibition to showcase different cultures and traditions especially from the Nandi community.

Speaking during the event, the deputy governor Dr. Yulita Mitei Cheruiyot thanked the national government through the state department for culture and national heritage for hosting the national event in Nandi. She said that Nandi county has rich culture and heritage that needs to be documented.

The deputy director from the state department for culture and national heritage Julius Manzi said that the national government is working on a culture bill which will be implemented to guide culture and diversity in the country. He added that culture is our way of life and there is no development that can be witnessed without involving culture. He urged those present to use culture as a unifying factor.

Different cultural and traditional groups were encouraged to write proposals and apply for funds for culture promotion from UNESCO.Interested groups were told to log into the UNESCO website for more information on how to apply and the processes to follow for them to be funded.

Present during the event were Kaburwo Council of Elders members led by the vice chair Augustine Kisorio, DCC Chesumei Sub-county Fred, Kosirai ACC Maureen Kagirwa Ogolla,CECM for Culture, gender and social welfare Scholastica Tuwei, CEMC for transport and infrastructure Eng. Limo, Chief Officers Benjamin Kiprotich and Kipchumba Cheruiyot, MCAs Truphosa Kutto who is the culture committee chairperson in the county assembly and her deputy Hon. John Bitok Laldim, Hon.Esther Misoi, Hon. Shangu Maina, a team from UNESCO among others.

In a bid to promote linguistic diversity and cultural heritage, the County Government of Nandi, in collaboration with the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, is set to host a vibrant celebration of International Mother Language Day 2025. The event will take place on Friday, 21st February, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the Amphitheater on the university’s campus.

This year’s theme, “Make Language Count for Sustainable Development”, underscores the critical role that languages play in fostering inclusive and sustainable development. The celebration aims to highlight the importance of preserving and promoting mother languages as a means of safeguarding cultural identity, enhancing communication, and driving socio-economic progress.

The event promises to be a colorful and engaging affair, featuring a variety of activities designed to celebrate linguistic diversity. Attendees can look forward to:

– Cultural performances: Traditional songs, dances, and poetry recitals in various mother languages.

– Panel discussions: Experts and scholars will discuss the role of language in sustainable development, education, and cultural preservation.

– Language exhibitions: Displays showcasing the rich linguistic heritage of Nandi County and beyond.

– Interactive sessions: Workshops and activities aimed at promoting the use of mother languages in daily life and education.

International Mother Language Day, proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999, is observed globally on 21st February each year. It serves as a reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and the need to protect endangered languages. In Nandi County, where cultural heritage is deeply rooted in language, this celebration is particularly significant.

The collaboration between the Nandi County Government and the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, reflects a shared commitment to preserving indigenous languages and promoting their role in sustainable development. By celebrating mother languages, the event seeks to empower communities, foster unity, and ensure that no language is left behind in the pursuit of progress.

Join the Celebration

The event is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend. Whether you are a language enthusiast, a cultural advocate, or simply curious about the rich linguistic tapestry of Nandi County, this celebration offers something for everyone. Come and be part of this meaningful occasion as we honor the power of language to shape our world.

Mark your calendars for 21st February 2025, and join us at the Amphitheater, University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Let’s come together to “Make Language Count for Sustainable Development” and celebrate the beauty of our mother tongues!

Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot led Nandi residents in celebrating International Day of People Living with Disabilities.

The celebrations held at AIC Kapsabet Bible College was graced by CECM for Education Scolastica Tuwei and County Assembly Speaker Philemon Meli among other dignitaries.

International Day of Person’s with Disabilities (IDPD) is a UN Day that is celebrated every year on 3rd December. It’s a day to help everyone become more compassionate and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

The Deputy Governor reiterated that not every disability is visible, adding that this day is important in recognizing and celebrating the equal rights and dignity of disabled people.

“We reaffirm our commitment to building a world where people with disabilities are afforded equal opportunities, independence and respect they deserve,” said the Deputy Governor.

Mrs Tuwei said the county will partner with stakeholders to ensure all PLWDs are reached with free medical checkups and provided with assistive devices.

“For the success of the day to celebrate the PLWD’s, we appreciate the partnership with Chepsoo/White Crescent Medical Center, EPK, Chepkumia Tea Factory, Lessos Dairies, Kenya Society For The Blind and Bethany Kits among others,” said Tuwei.

Nandi CEC for Health and Sanitation Ruth Koech has urged women in Nandi County to form groups to enable them benefit from the various government development projects.

The CEC Member urged women to seek information on county and national government opportunities and also take part in public participation forums such as the budget making process.

Ruth said women should also come together and register companies where they shall be able to apply for tenders.

She said 30 per cent of the tenders are allocated to women, youth and people living with disabilities.

The CEC said both the county and the national government are committed to ensure that marginalized groups such as women, youth and the disabled access opportunities that will enable them realize their full potential.

In her part the CEC nominee for Education, Sports Culture and Youth Affairs Scolastica Tuwei said that social and economic empowerment through various development programmes is paramount for a community’s development.

She said the participation of women in social and economic areas have helped in poverty eradication programmes.

She also called on the youth to form groups in order for them to benefit from the hustler fund from the national government. She further called on the boda boda operators to form or join Saccos.

They were speaking jointly during the opening of Joyful Women Organization (JOYWO) Offices in Kapsabet Town.

The County Government of Nandi is committed to all efforts made for the advancement of women, especially in the economic, social and cultural areas. The County is convinced that the advancement of women is one of the primary points of allowing society to create an atmosphere conducive to development.

People Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in Nandi County, are set to be trained on various skills in order to improve their living standards and be self-reliant.

The training program will equip persons with visual impairment with skills and opportunities in ICT. The goal is to equip the visually impaired with relevant and practical technology skills required to compete in the 21st century and connect them with decent job opportunities and entrepreneurship.

The training will take place at the newly constructed Empowerment Center at Chemundu, Chemundu/Kapng’etuny Ward in Chesumei Sub-county.

The PLWD Empowerment Center will also benefit all categories of people living with disabilities in Nandi.

“Training such people to use ICT will enrich their ICT knowledge, their ability to use the internet, their reading of daily newspapers, their use of ‘Digital Talking Books’, their ability to search job information and will also help them to acquire the skills needed to do certain work. The objective of training is to increase ICT literacy and employability of people,” said Dominic Tulo, Deputy Director for Gender and Social Welfare.

To support the center, The Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB) has donated ten desktops, fusion screen reading and magnification software, type-ability softwares, portable USB speakers and Logitech headphones.

While receiving the donations, the County Secretary Dr Francis Sang MBS appreciated the donations of the devices to the center. “The donations are as per an MoU we signed with the Kenya Society for the Blind in December 2020 on our working together to better empower the visually impaired in the county,” he said.

The Department of Tourism, Gender and Social Welfare has developed and implemented social welfare measures within programmes to mitigate the unique challenges of needs not met for vulnerable groups, i.e. orphans, vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, the youth, elderly and women.

The County Government of Nandi has been availing resources to PLWDs across the county. Through the department of Tourism, Gender and Social Welfare, it has been able to supply 343 tools of trade, among them salon kits and sewing machines, to support disabled people earn an income and be able to sustain their livelihood.

Besides the tools of trade, the county has largely majored on assistive devices where it has been able to supply over 5000 assistive devices which includes wheelchairs, canes, walkers, mobility cards and crutches in the last four years.

Present during the donations were Samson Waweru, Chairman Kenya Society of the Blind and other officials.

Nandi County recognizes children’s rights, fights for their space and has always championed for child protection to ensure that their rights & dignity is upheld.

It has championed for this through the Toll Free Call Centre 1548 where members of the public can call and raise issues surrounding child protection. The call center has also raised awareness on child protection through outbound calls and SMS to the general public.

This comes in timely as the African continent celebrates Day of the African Child, 2021 themed “30 years after the adoption of the Charter: accelerate the implementation of Agenda 2040 for an Africa fit for children”.

The county is partnering with Childline Kenya (116) www.childlinekenya.co.ke in creating awareness and optimizing access to child protection services as well as strengthening response to reported cases. Child Helpline 116 – Kenya

According to Emily Bett, the Call Centre Manager, Nandi county call centre has in the recent past handled over 50 cases of child related issues. She calls upon the citizens to protect children’s rights and make use of the TOLL FREE 1548 adding that the County Government of Nandi is always ready to listen and handle any issues raised.

We celebrate Kenyan Children.

County Government of Nandi through the Department of Tourism Culture Gender and Social Welfare, partnered and signed an MOU with the Church Christ of Later Day Saints, whereby they provided Kitchen Garden Parks to over 800 Households of vulnerable groups within the county.

The distribution of the Kitchen Garden Parks will be shared within the 30 wards and each ward will have 27 beneficiaries , and the sub division will be done in the entire six sub counties.
The programme targets person’s with disability, widows, widowers and the aged.

It is expected among the groups of people apart from disability, even widows/widowers, those who are critically ill and the old.

The groups recieved beans , maize seedlings, indigenous vegetables, DAP and CAN fertilizers.

Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Mitei graced the event by flagging off the consignment with the help of CECM TCSW Wilson Taiy , CECM Education Grace Sugut , CO, Scholastica Tuwei , and entire staff of TCSW.

“We want to thank the Church of Christ Later – Day saints for agreeing to partner with the County Government of Nandi in helping these groups and with this gesture it is importance to note that service to humanity is service to God “, H.E Dr. Yulita said.

Elder Dominic Kogo of the Church of Christ Later Day saints said, “it was an honor to be in Nandi to support the vulnerable and they will continue partnering with County Government of Nandi.”

The exercise of distribution will conducted by social welfare officers drawn from all sub counties in the next few days it will reach all the beneficiaries.

Department of Tourism Culture, Gender and Social Welfare hosted a Team of Delegation Led by CS Labour and Social Protection Samson Chelugui, Governor Makueni Kivutha Kibwana, Directors VSO, NCPWD to celebrate International Volunteers Day and Persons with Disabilities.

The theme for the celebrations is, ‘Building back better towards disability that is inclusive, accessible and sustainable Post Covid -19 World “and to “thank volunteers for the Action that was showcased during this period of volunteering during Covid -19 crisis.’

The partners of the event were Partners for Care, Bethany Kids, Kenya Society of the blind, Voluntary Service overseas and Ncpwd.

The Event of the day was characterized by H. E Stephen Sang signing 3 MOU’S.

The first MOU was between VSO and Nandi County, where it indicated a clear policy framework of volunteering of youths in Nandi County, the second was between Kenya Society of the Blind where they committed themselves with Nandi County to have a cordial relationship, to always support Nandi with White Canes and the third was International Cancer Institute where County of Nandi will partner together to fight Cancer Disease.

“We must provide Pwds ‘with assistive devices, and by the signing of Mous ‘will a clear mandate of supporting people with disability. I want to urge National Government towards the next year 2021 no to Tax Pwds’ and by so doing will be doing the right thing to the disabled in our society,” H. E Stephen Sang said

During the event, H. E Kivutha Kibwana was awarded to be the National Goodwill Ambassador of Volunteers in Kenya.

“We must build a culture of volunteering in Kenya and at the of the end of the day, we will build a National volunteering Program,” he said.

The guest of honour of the Day CS. Samson Chelugui graced the event by lamenting that he encourages everyone to be part of the volunteering team.

“I want to encourage everyone to join to a be a volunteer and to see clear data for volunteers countrywide and by these, we will be building patriotism in Kenya. We are together Pwd and as a Ministry, we have laid a clear policy framework to mitigate PWD during this covid -19 period,” said Chelugui.

High-quality child care keeps children safe and healthy. This care and protection is key in their growth and is therefore everyone’s responsibility to enhance a safe and conducive environment for their well-being.
The county government of Nandi is committed to providing a conducive environment for the care, protection, and growth of children to achieve their potential in life.
It’s putting in many efforts especially in creating awareness on child protection and reducing their vulnerability, especially during the current long academic breaks. It is also partnering with different agencies to ensure their safety of the Children is enhanced.
Given this, today the county government signed an MOU with Child-line Kenya on awareness creation of child protection services. Childline Kenya is a National Non-governmental Organization whose mission is to promote children’s rights and enhance child protection in Kenya.
It also focuses on building the capacity of children and their guardians in advocacy on child protection as well as identifying and reporting the various cases of all forms of child abuse.
The same will also be achieved through the county toll-free call center 1548 where the public can report any cases at any time and will receive a prompt response.
Besides providing a safe environment for children, the public is therefore called upon to be vigilant about any arising cases of child abuse and report them.