Inside the Proposed Mashujaa Gardens Museum [VIDEO]

The entrance to the proposed Mashujaa museum at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.
The entrance to the proposed Mashujaa museum at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.
File

Political activist Marcus Garvey once stated that a person/country without knowledge of their history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.

Kenya is home to historic and traditional cultures which are stocked in various museums and archives in order to tell the Kenyan story.

A good example is the proposed Mashujaa Museum currently being established by the National Museums of Kenya in collaboration with other state agencies at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County.

A historical monument at Uhuru Gardens.
A historical monument at Uhuru Gardens.

NMK noted that the purpose of the museum would be to act as an archive of Kenya's history since 1800. This will span the early history and peoples of Kenya, colonization, independence, warfare, and development over the years. 

The entrance to the museum will capture a patriotic feeling as Kenyan flags will be raised high on both sides alongside the coat of arms.

Inside, the museum will depict the culture and history of Kenya with portraits of heroes such as former President Jomo Kenyatta, Tom Mboya, environmentalist Wangari Maathai and freedom fighter Dedan Kimathi.

Portraits and artifacts showing Kenyans' struggle for independence will also be displayed in various sections. Others include photographs, films, unique literature, writings, maps, traditional weaponry, and musical instruments.

Further, in order to appreciate culture, photos of different types of wildlife, primarily the big five, will also be on display.

Other sections will include a library, souvenir shop, and a stone artifact showing the first stanza of the national anthem in both English and Swahili. 

NMK had recently appealed to individuals in possession of materials of historical significance to donate to the proposed museum.

"We are desirous in acquiring relevant objects/memorabilia by way of donation, a long-term loan, or any other suitable arrangement. 

"Key aspects to be considered include the early history and people of Kenya, colonialisation, independence, military history, national growth and development of Kenya after the 2010 constitution," the government institution stated

Currently, Uhuru gardens, which is undergoing renovations, is expected to be reopened in December 2021.

Watch the video below

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