By Staff Writer | Wajir Today | Tuesday, 7 October 2025
Minority and marginalised communities in Wajir County came together in Wajir town on Monday during a colorful cultural celebration aimed at promoting unity, inclusion, and national cohesion.
The event, featuring traditional dances, songs, and showcases of diverse cultural heritage, drew hundreds of participants and was graced by the Principal Secretary for Culture, Arts and Heritage, Hon. Ummi Bashir.
PS Ummi praised the initiative as a powerful expression of Kenya’s cultural wealth and pledged the government’s continued commitment to inclusion.
“Your message of unity will be conveyed to President William Ruto in the spirit of inclusivity,” she said. “The government recognises the role that every community, regardless of size, plays in building the nation.”
She urged young people from minority communities to take advantage of government programmes and opportunities designed to uplift them.
“I encourage you to enrol in the NYOTA Project, register as voters, sign up for the Social Health Authority (SHA) programme, and become champions of peace and cohesion in your communities,” the PS added.
The event also served as a platform for government officials to highlight ongoing efforts to address historical and structural inequalities affecting minority and marginalised groups across the country.
Mr. Moses Ole Kachike, Deputy Director for Advisory and Community Liaison in the Office of the President’s Minorities and Marginalised Unit, said the event underscored the government’s renewed focus on policies that promote equity and inclusion.
“Today we are here in Wajir County to engage with our minority and marginalised communities.” Kachike said. “We are witnessing an incredible display of their languages, traditions, and the rich diversity that defines Wajir.”
He noted that the government is developing a national policy to tackle issues affecting minority communities, including historical injustices, unemployment, and representation gaps.
“The 2010 Constitution laid the foundation for affirmative action and equitable service delivery, but we must go further to ensure that no community is left behind,” Kachike added.
Kenya is home to more than 70 minority communities spread across 34 counties, many of whom continue to face challenges in access to education, healthcare, and political participation.
Khadija Ali Mohamed, the National Chairperson of Marginalised and Minority Ethnic Groups, commended the government for recognising their plight and including them in national development conversations.
“We thank President William Ruto’s government for recognising us,” she said. “For the first time, our voices are being heard, and we truly appreciate the efforts being made to ensure our inclusion.”
The celebration concluded with a call for unity, respect for cultural diversity, and the strengthening of government-community partnerships to promote peace and equitable development in Wajir.
