NAIROBI, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- Kenya plans to use festivals in order to promote the country's cultural heritage, a government official said on Friday.
Jane Atudo, assistant director of State Department for Culture and Heritage who spoke on behalf of Josephta Mukobe, Principal Secretary of State Department of Culture and Heritage, said that festivals are ideal avenues for showcasing cultural artifacts and performances by local communities.
"Festivals are of importance the world over. They serve as the identity of communities, venues for cultural dialogue, peace building measures and enjoyment of a people's culture and heritage," Atudo said in Nairobi.
Atudo noted that galas are also tools for transmitting culture and traditions from one generation to another.
According to the state department, cultural festivals can play a role in economic development by opening up markets for cultural goods and services.
She said that communities, cultural groups, and local musicians can also take advantage of festivals to exhibit their cultural diversities through showcasing talent.
"When we celebrate our cultural diversity, we affirm to one another that we appreciate their existence and uniqueness that each one contributes to make a united peaceful Kenya," she said.
According to Atudo, neither progress, nor is social cohesion possible if culture is left to one side given that the road to inclusive social and economic development, peace and security is firmly grounded in culture. Enditem
