Aasai

Bomas of Kenya has announced a temporary closure for two months to enhance its services and improve the overall cultural experience for visitors. In a public notice released on Monday, March 24, Bomas emphasized that this break is intended to allow for significant improvements in its offerings and introduce new services that will elevate the experience for both local and international guests.

The notice addressed customers and the general public, stating that the institution is committed to upgrading its cultural presentations and facilities. "Dear valued customers and the general public, Bomas of Kenya wishes to inform you that we will be taking a two-month break from offering our services. This is to allow us to enhance our offerings and introduce improved services and products that will elevate your cultural experience with us," read part of the statement.

During this temporary closure, Bomas of Kenya has encouraged customers to stay updated through its social media pages and official website. The management assured the public that although on-site activities will be suspended, off-site services such as traditional dance performances will remain available.

The announcement comes at a time when Bomas of Kenya has been under public scrutiny due to recent developments surrounding the facility. On March 11, President William Ruto revealed that the construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex is set to begin. The project, aimed at transforming the institution into a world-class facility, is a key part of the governments broader agenda to position Kenya as a premier destination for global conferences and cultural tourism.

According to the Cabinet Dispatch, Ruto highlighted that the construction would begin within two weeks, marking a major milestone in the transformation of the heritage site. “The President announced that construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex will begin in two weeks, marking a major milestone in the government’s plan to transform the facility into a world-class conferencing hub,” the statement read.

Additionally, the dispatch noted that the project would not only modernize the infrastructure but also redefine the role of Bomas of Kenya, making it more attractive for international events. “The project aims to redefine the look, feel, and purpose of Bomas, positioning it as a premier destination for global events,” the statement continued.

However, the redevelopment plans have been met with controversy. On March 9, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made a bold claim that Bomas of Kenya was being sold to a Turkish national. He alleged that the government had secretly approved the sale, sparking widespread concern and debate. The statement, which quickly gained traction, led to demands for clarification from government officials and the public.

In response to these claims, the government firmly denied any sale of the facility. On March 10, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Culture and Arts, Ummi Bashir, dismissed the allegations, stating that Bomas remains under state ownership and is not being privatized. Bashir reiterated that the institution is safeguarded by government policies and remains a significant cultural and historical site.

"By dint of Executive Order of Government No. 2 of 2023, Bomas of Kenya was placed under the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage," Bashir stated in her response. She further emphasized that the ongoing developments are meant to enhance the sites value and not to transfer ownership to private entities.

Despite these assurances, discussions regarding the future of Bomas of Kenya continue. The public remains keen on monitoring how the government will handle the redevelopment process while preserving the cultural heritage that Bomas represents. Many stakeholders, including cultural enthusiasts and tourism industry players, have expressed interest in seeing how the institution will evolve following the planned transformation.

Bomas of Kenya, established in 1971, has played a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage. It has been a popular destination for both local and international visitors, offering traditional music, dance, and exhibitions that celebrate Kenyas rich ethnic diversity. The institution has also served as a significant venue for national events, including political discussions and cultural forums.

As the two-month closure takes effect, many are eager to see the improvements that Bomas will unveil once it reopens. The commitment to enhancing its offerings aligns with the governments vision of boosting cultural tourism and positioning Kenya as a global leader in heritage conservation and entertainment.

While some concerns remain over the future direction of Bomas, the upcoming redevelopment presents an opportunity to elevate its status as a premier cultural and conferencing hub. How the government executes these plans while addressing public concerns will be a key factor in determining the success of the transformation.

For now, Bomas of Kenya has assured the public that it remains committed to its mission and will continue to offer cultural services even as it undergoes these significant changes. The next few months will be crucial in shaping the next chapter for t

his historic institution.