Turkana Boy: Kenya’s Eternal Ambassador
Turkana Boy: Kenya’s Eternal Ambassador By Lilian Mwenda Working at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) has offered me many privileges—but none as profound as stepping into the legendary strong room, a secure vault engineered to withstand even a bomb blast. This is where Kenya’s most extraordinary treasure rests: the original skeleton of Turkana Boy. […]
Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site
Nairobi-Nakuru Highway Why Visit? The Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site offers an extraordinary glimpse into prehistoric life in the Rift Valley, with evidence of human settlement spanning over 5,000 years. The site, characterized by ancient burial mounds, stone structures, and artifacts, stands as one of Kenya’s most significant archaeological sites. Coupled with breathtaking views of Lake […]
Siyu Fort
Pate Island Lamu Why Visit? Siyu Fort stands as a rare testament to Swahili resistance against foreign domination. Unlike many other coastal forts built by the Portuguese, this fort was constructed by the local Swahili people of Siyu in the 19th century as a stronghold against external threats, making it a unique piece of Kenya’s […]
Mnarani Ruins
Near Kilifi town Why Visit? The Mnarani Ruins stand as silent sentinels of a bygone Swahili civilization. These remnants of an ancient coastal settlement whisper tales of commerce, conquest, and cultural fusion between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Dating back to the 14th century, the site features the crumbling remains of grand mosques and […]
Nyeri Museum
Nyeri Town Why Visit? Located in the heart of Nyeri town, the Nyeri Museum stands as a monument to Kenya’s legal, cultural, and independence heritage. Originally constructed in 1924 as a courthouse under the colonial administration, the museum now tells the story of Kenya’s justice system, the Mau Mau movement, and the cultural resilience of […]
Meru Museum
Meru town centre Why Visit? The Meru Museum is a cultural beacon in the Mount Kenya region, offering rich insights into the diverse traditions, history, and natural heritage of the Meru people. Housed in a historic colonial building dating back to 1916, it blends preserved architecture with interactive displays and live exhibits, making it a […]
Loiyangalani Desert Museum
Trans-Nzoia County Why Visit? Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the Lake Turkana, the Loiyangalani Desert Museum offers an extraordinary gateway into the diverse cultures and natural environment of Northern Kenya. Opened in June 2008, the museum serves as a cultural anchor for the eight indigenous communities that inhabit this arid and remote […]
Wajir Museum
Wajir County Why Visit? The Wajir Museum, officially opened on 19th April 2011, is dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage of Northern Kenya. As a regional institution under the National Museums of Kenya, it highlights the life and identity of nomadic communities living in this vast, semi-arid region and their centuries-old […]
Celebrating Gedi’s World Heritage Inscription and Turkana Boy’s Anniversary
Celebrating Gedi’s World Heritage Inscription and Turkana Boy’s Anniversary The air was electric at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) headquarters—a day not just of ceremony, but of celebration, remembrance, and reaffirmation of identity. It was a rare convergence of heritage, leadership, and pride as Kenya marked two historic milestones: the formal recognition of Gedi […]
Ngomeni Shipwreck: Unearthing a 16th-Century Maritime Treasure
Ngomeni Shipwreck: Unearthing a 16th-Century Maritime Treasure By Lilly M It’s not every day you stand at the edge of history—gazing into the past through waves and time. When I travelled to Malindi for the media launch of the Ngomeni Shipwreck Project, I knew I was about to witness something extraordinary. Beneath the surface of […]