Woman Rep Urges Cultural Groups to Lead in Advocacy

Tharaka-Nithi County Woman Representative Susan Ngugi has urged cultural groups to become cultural ambassadors by embracing and promoting diverse cultural practices beyond songs and dances, in order to foster virtues within society.

Ngugi, who met with cultural groups from Maara Constituency on Thursday, emphasized the importance of these groups in identifying and preserving culture. She encouraged them to champion campaigns such as the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in society.

“You should advocate for the promotion of good behaviour in society. Use culture to educate young people and the wider community on issues that shape their character. Use the platforms you have to promote a better society and good deeds,” she said.

She also urged the groups to equip the public with knowledge about indigenous foods to help combat diseases linked to lifestyle choices and processed foods.

“You should inform people about traditional remedies and delicacies, and pass on knowledge about traditional foods,” she added.

Ngugi further called on the government to support such cultural groups through funding and collaboration, to facilitate seminars and exhibitions that promote culture and preserve indigenous practices.

The Woman Representative also advocated for the inclusion of sub-tribes in the county as recognized tribes in Kenya, stressing the need to appreciate unique customs, celebrate diversity, and promote individual cultures within the county.

“Chuka is in the process of identifying as a tribe, to distinguish itself from broader tribal classifications. To protect our unique cultures, let us uphold our individual community customs. We also want our other sub-tribes to be recognized as tribes in Kenya,” she said.

To boost empowerment, the Woman Representative supported the Muthambi Cultural CBO with KShs 150,000 for table banking.

During her tour of Maara, she also supported the Muungano Bodaboda Group in Mitheru Ward with a cheque worth KShs 100,000, and the Kamuchimbo Self-Help Group in Mwimbi Ward with KShs 120,000 to purchase catering equipment.