This archive report was first published on 28 November 2019.
On December 26, 2019, the Building Bridges Initiative task force unveiled a proposal to convert Boxing Day into National Culture Day, a move aimed at celebrating Kenya's diverse cultures and fostering national ethos and cohesion.
The task force, which was established to promote unity and reconciliation in the country, suggested that the day be set aside to celebrate Kenya's rich cultural heritage and promote a sense of shared identity among its citizens.
According to the report, the celebrations can also be held on January 1 every year, with the aim of promoting a national ethos that builds and reinforces unity.
"We lack shared beliefs, ideals and aspirations about what Kenya can become if we all subscribed to a national ethos that builds and reinforces our unity," the report stated.
The task force also recommended that a national vision for the country be drawn, one that will exist for 100 years or three generations, with the aim of ending perennial political tensions that come with elections.
Furthermore, the task force suggested that the government undertake initiatives to harmonize modern identity with diverse African cultures, and address the issue of skin lightening and bleaching.
The team also proposed strengthening the Ministry of Culture and Heritage, which they say has been treated as a peripheral government entity.
