This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is taking proactive measures to safeguard the country's rich cultural heritage. In a bid to protect the historic Vasco da Gama Pillar in Malindi, the NMK has embarked on constructing a Sh. 60 million seawall.
The Vasco da Gama Pillar, built by the Portuguese in 1498, is a landmark for the tourist haven of Malindi and attracts thousands of domestic and foreign tourists. However, strong tidal waves caused by rising sea levels have put the iconic architectural treasure at great risk of collapse.
According to NMK Director General Dr. Mzalendo Kibunjia, heritage sites and landmarks like the Vasco da Gama Pillar and the Jumba La Mtwana in Mtwapa Township are at risk of being lost to the sea due to coastal erosion.
Dr. Kibunjia noted that many historical and marine cultural sites along the shoreline, enlisted by UNESCO for their outstanding universal value, face a perilous and uncertain future due to rising sea levels.
The NMK has already completed the construction of a Sh. 497 million structurally sound seawall at the Fort Jesus in Mombasa, and the Vasco da Gama Pillar rehabilitation works are part of the organization's efforts to protect the country's cultural heritage.
Dr. Kibunjia emphasized the importance of preserving historical sites and monuments, stating that they are key centers for promoting the country's heritage. He called for more resources to shield the heritage properties from falling into permanent ruin.
The construction of the seawall, which began last month, is being undertaken by Gateway Innovation Ltd under the best specification and engineering standards. The project aims to create a strong shore protection structure that acts as the last line of defense from the Indian Ocean.
Dr. Kibunjia expressed concern that rising seas fueled by melting glaciers and ice caps threaten to swallow the coastal landmarks and highlighted the losses to the tourism industry should the sites fall victim to a warming planet.
He said the NMK is committed to protecting historical sites and monuments, and the Vasco da Gama Pillar rehabilitation works are a testament to this commitment.
The project is expected to be completed within the stipulated time frame, with the construction site manager, Chihanga Donda, stating that the seawall is designed to withstand the full force of the ocean's waves.
Dr. Kibunjia also highlighted the importance of preserving other historical sites across the country, including the Kenyatta Houses in Maralal and Lodwar, and the Gede ruins in Kilifi County.
The NMK is pushing to have the Gede ruins enlisted as a world heritage site for its historical and architectural significance.
