Pwani University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malindi District Cultural Association (MADCA) to collaborate in researching and documenting the Mijikenda cultural heritage for future generations.
Protecting Mijikenda Traditions from Extinction
The Mijikenda culture, currently under threat due to modernization and the influence of Western religion, faces the risk of extinction. This collaboration marks a significant step towards reversing this trend and preserving progressive cultural practices of the Mijikenda people.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at the MADCA Centre in Sabaki, Malindi Sub County, MADCA founding Chairman Stan Kiraga emphasized the historical importance of the initiative.
“This is the clarion call made by the first African presidents, such as Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Jomo Kenyatta, whose vision was that education should benefit African communities,” Kiraga stated. “Today, we are fusing education and culture because that is the foundation stone of development.”
A Fusion of Knowledge and Wisdom
MADCA Secretary General Joseph Karisa Mwarandu underscored the importance of the MoU in helping current and future generations appreciate the Mijikenda cultural heritage and reconnect with their roots.
“The signing of this MoU demonstrates that educators and elders can work together. Educationists have knowledge, while elders have wisdom. When knowledge and wisdom are fused, they can bring tremendous progress in our societies,” he said.
Pwani University’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
Dr. Nancy Ngowa, Chairperson of the Department of Languages and Linguistics at Pwani University, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to this collaboration, emphasizing its impact on the Kilifi-based institution and the local community.
“We are documenting the culture of the Mijikenda community to ensure it is preserved for future generations. This MoU is unique as it allows direct community engagement by the university,” she said.
She also highlighted the broader benefits of preserving indigenous knowledge, which extends beyond the community to academic institutions as well.
Expansion to Other Cultural Collaborations
Dr. Tsomunga Chidongo, Senior Lecturer at Pwani University and the initiator of the collaboration, outlined his vision for expanding partnerships to other coastal communities.
“This is the beginning of a unique period for Pwani University. We hope to collaborate with other cultural centers in Kwale, Tana River, Lamu, and Taita Taveta counties to document and preserve our communities’ cultural heritage,” he said.
Dr. Chidongo also hinted at the potential establishment of a Centre for African Culture Studies at Pwani University in the future, ensuring that Africa’s rich cultural heritage is thoroughly documented and archived for posterity.
