This archive report was first published on 29 July 2019.
Kakapel Monument: A Hidden Gem of Ancient Rock Art ¶
Deep in the heart of Busia County, a treasure trove of ancient rock art awaits discovery. The Kakapel Monument, declared a national monument in 2004, is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
Located near the Malaba border post, the monument is a granite rock that stands at an impressive 270 meters high. From its summit, one can witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with lush green vegetation and human settlements stretching as far as the eye can see.
But it's not just the scenery that makes Kakapel Monument special – it's the ancient rock art that adorns its walls. The site is home to some of the oldest and most diverse rock art in East and Central Africa, with paintings dating back over 2,000-3,000 years.
According to Mr. Zakayos Akwara, the curator of the Kakapel Community Cultural Centre, the paintings depict the lives and environment of the hunters, gatherers, and pastoralists who inhabited the region. 'Research is ongoing to establish the exact period the groups inhabited this place,' he said.
One of the most striking features of the rock art is the presence of geometric designs and animal images, including an elephant and cattle. The paintings are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the ancient people who created them.
But Kakapel Monument is not just a site of ancient rock art – it's also a hub of cultural and natural heritage. The site is home to thousands of bats, a variety of bird species, and the resident De Brazza monkeys. Visitors can also explore the Kakapel Community Cultural Centre, which showcases the rich Iteso culture of the region.
Despite its significance, Kakapel Monument has been struggling to attract visitors. According to Mr. Akwara, the site needs funding for marketing and awareness campaigns to reach a wider audience. 'We need to create awareness about this vital tourism resource,' he said.
However, there is hope on the horizon. In April, the National Museums of Kenya signed a memorandum of understanding with Busia County government to give cultural and natural sites a facelift. The agreement aims to conserve the natural heritage of the region and establish a research centre to document cultural and heritage activities.
As the Kakapel Monument continues to attract visitors from around the world, it's clear that this hidden gem of ancient rock art is a treasure that deserves to be preserved and celebrated.
