In Berlin, Germany, Turkana County showcased its untapped cultural heritage and significance as the origin of mankind at the ITB Berlin tourism fair.
According to Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Trade and Industry, Phyllis Kandie, the unveiling of the Turkana Boy monument will be a pivotal moment for both Turkana County and Kenya, promoting pilgrimage tourism and diversifying the country's tourism products.
Evidence of the Origin of Mankind ¶
The fossil of the Turkana Boy, dating back 1.6 million years, serves as proof of Turkana being the origin of mankind. The site of excavation has been gazetted, and a monument has been erected to preserve this significant historical find.
Response from Officials ¶
Governor Josephat Nanok expressed excitement about Turkana's potential to revolutionize Kenya's tourism sector, stating that the county's unique selling point is its status as the origin of mankind. He also announced plans to build an epic museum in Turkana to house the Turkana Boy fossil, with architectural plans being drawn up in the US with the help of Dr. Richard Leakey.
Context and Consequences ¶
Cabinet Secretary Kandie emphasized the need for counties to map out their unique tourism products, encouraging the preservation of traditional lifestyles and cultures for future generations. The Turkana County team, led by Deputy Governor Peter Ekai, promoted the 2nd edition of the Turkana Tourism and Cultural Festival – Tobong'u Lore 2015, scheduled to take place from August 27-30 in Lodwar.
The ITB Berlin tourism fair, which began in 1966, attracts over 10,000 visitors and features exhibitions from 185 countries worldwide, including African nations. This year's event saw the participation of South Sudan, a relatively new nation.
