- Kenya’s former ambassador to Botswana, Mr Mohamed Shidiye, during the launch of a new book “My Lagdera,” by, Mr Musab Ismail Muhumed, at a Nairobi hotel. PHOTO/UGC.
By ABDULHAKIM SHERMAN
Kenya’s former ambassador to Botswana, Mr Mohamed Shidiye, has asked the youth to document Kenya’s rich cultural heritage through writing of books and other forms of literary works.
Mr Shidiye who was speaking at a city hotel during the launch of a new book “My Lagdera,” by, Mr Musab Ismail Muhumed, a promising writer and a journalist at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) said the responsibility of preserving Kenya’s rich cultural heritage lay in the hands of the youth adding that through writing and documentation, they could ensure that their stories, traditions, and identities would endure.
“We stand at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Our diverse communities possess a wealth of cultural treasures, from music and food to societal norms that define who we are. It is imperative that we preserve this heritage for future generations,” he said.
Mr. Shidiye the budding author, Mr Muhumed had taken a bold step in that direction and his book, ‘My Lagdera,’ is a testament to the power of storytelling as it explored the identity, behavioural aspects, politics of negotiated democracy, and the territorial challenges and unique opportunities faced by the Somali community.
“I urge the younger generation among the Somali community, and indeed all communities in Kenya, to emulate the writer of ‘My Lagdera.’ Appreciate your culture, heritage, music, and food by documenting these aspects in books for future generations,” he observed.
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) journalists during the launch of a new book “My Lagdera,” by their colleague, Mr Musab Ismail Muhumed, at a Nairobi hotel. PHOTO/UGC
The former envoy said there was need to inculcate the culture of writing among the youth so that they can record their history for posterity. “By doing so, we ensure that our stories, our traditions, and our identity are not lost to the sands of time,” he quipped.
He spoke passionately about the contributions of Africans to global culture, drawing parallels to the significant impact African artists had made in the United States through music, film, acting, and other artistic genres. “This is a trend you should emulate,” he encouraged.
Mr Muhumed shared excerpts from his book, captivating the audience with tales of the Somali community’s journey. The launch of “My Lagdera” was more than just a book event; it was a call to action for young Kenyans to take pride in their heritage and become the chroniclers of their own history.
The importance of documenting history had never been more apparent. Inspired and motivated, many young attendees left the event with a newfound determination to embrace the art of writing and ensure that Kenya’s cultural legacy would be preserved for generations to come.
