The County Government of Trans Nzoia (CGTN) and Kibabii University (KIBU) have formalized a partnership to foster cultural and educational advancement within the region. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed today at the County Headquarters, outlines various joint initiatives, including research, capacity building, and cultural preservation.
One of the partnership’s key initiatives is the establishment of a Ken Walibora Corner at the Kitale Museum, which will serve as a resource center dedicated to promoting local languages and preserving cultural heritage. Under the agreement, the County Government of Trans Nzoia will provide the physical space within the museum, while Kibabii University will contribute books and other academic materials to support this cultural corner.
The MoU also covers additional areas, such as collaborative research on local languages and cultural practices, organizing conferences and seminars, providing capacity-building programs for county library staff, and fostering professional development. Both the county and the university aim to work together on cultural events and activities that will promote community cohesion and respect for cultural diversity within the region.
Governor George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia emphasized the importance of this partnership for cultural preservation and educational growth. “This MoU will strengthen our county’s cultural diversity and promote educational opportunities for our people,” Natembeya remarked at the signing ceremony.
Kibabii University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo, highlighted the significance of the university’s role in fostering regional collaboration. “This partnership will not only enhance academic research but also contribute to the documentation and promotion of indigenous knowledge,” he said.
The five-year agreement also includes provisions for intellectual property rights, a dispute resolution mechanism, and periodic consultations to evaluate progress. A joint steering committee has been appointed to oversee the implementation of projects, ensuring the initiatives’ success. Notably, the MoU involves no financial obligations unless specified in future collaborative activities.
This partnership between Trans Nzoia County and Kibabii University marks a significant step toward advancing cultural tourism and academic research, benefiting both Trans Nzoia and the neighboring counties.
