This archive report was first published on 26 December 2019.
December 26, 2019
Utamaduni Day, a holiday introduced to replace Boxing Day in Kenya, has been hailed as a step towards ending tribalism and negative ethnicity in the country.
Businesswoman Agnes Kagure, a strong advocate for the holiday, believes it will help bridge the gap between Kenya's diverse cultures and promote unity among its people.
According to Kagure, Utamaduni Day is an opportunity for Kenyans to celebrate their rich cultural heritage and appreciate each other's unique differences.
“Once you accept who you are and appreciate it, you will find it easy to appreciate others in their unique differences,” Kagure said.
The holiday, which was introduced by the Kenyan cabinet chaired by President Uhuru Kenyatta, has been met with mixed reactions from the public.
However, Kagure remains optimistic that Utamaduni Day will bring about positive change in the country.
“Currently, people shy away from identifying with their ethnic communities for the fear of either being profiled or missing out on employment opportunities and favors, but that should not be the case,” Kagure said.
