This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
On July 29, 2019, the Government of Kenya handed over 30 cultural artifacts to Kaya elders from the Mijikenda community at Fort Jesus in Mombasa County. The artifacts, known as 'vigango', were allegedly stolen over 150 years ago and shipped to the United States.
The repatriation of the artifacts is a significant milestone in the quest for social and cultural justice for Kenyan people, according to Sports and Culture Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohammed. 'The value of our national history is the best intellectual currency for our future. We will ensure that this quest continues until every item of historical significance finds its way back to our shores and we can showcase our culture,' she said.
However, National Museum of Kenya Chairman David Musila expressed concern that despite efforts to have Kenyan artifacts returned, several of them were still lying at the port of Mombasa after government officials failed to clear them. He challenged other foreign countries presently in possession of Kenyan artifacts to move with high speed and ensure their return.
The 30 vigango or effigies represent the spirits of GOHU council of elders whose mandate was to direct the community against calamities and misfortunes, according to Kaya elder Joseph Mwarandu.
