Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has called on county governments to fully take over museums and cultural heritage functions, saying devolved units must be empowered to preserve and promote their unique identities.
Speaking during a Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations meeting with the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), the senator argued that museums are a devolved function under the Constitution and should therefore be managed at the county level together with the necessary resources and support.
Thang’wa said counties should not only inherit the responsibility of running museums but also receive the assets, funding, and institutional backing required to preserve Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.
“Museums are a devolved function, and counties must receive the attendant resources, assets and support necessary to preserve and promote their heritage, culture and identity,” he said.
The senator, however, challenged the National Museums of Kenya to rethink the traditional role of museums and embrace innovation by creating modern spaces that reflect Kenya’s technological growth and future aspirations.
According to Thang’wa, museums should no longer focus only on preserving ancient history and artefacts but should also document modern achievements and emerging technologies shaping society today.
He proposed the establishment of modern, interactive museums showcasing sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, fintech, digital innovation, gaming, media evolution, smart agriculture, science, and technology.
“We can have museums of today that inspire the future while preserving the past,” the senator stated.
Thang’wa noted that Kenya has increasingly positioned itself as a regional and global leader in digital innovation and technology, adding that museums should reflect the country’s evolving identity and achievements.
He said modern museums would not only educate young people about history but also inspire creativity, innovation, and interest in emerging industries among the youth.
“Imagine a child walking into a museum and learning not only about our past civilizations but also about the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the future of humanity,” he said.
The senator further urged counties without museums to begin investing in technology-driven cultural centres capable of boosting tourism, preserving heritage, and supporting youth innovation.
He added that museums can also play an important role in economic growth by attracting visitors and promoting local culture and creativity.
Thang’wa maintained that museums should evolve into spaces that connect Kenya’s past, present, and future.
“Museums should not only tell us where we came from. They should also show us where we are going,” he stated.
The remarks are expected to spark fresh debate on the future of museums and the role counties should play in preserving and modernising Kenya’s cultural heritage.
