The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is seeking Sh 350m to construct seawalls around key heritage sites in the Coast region. NMK Director-General Dr Mzalendo Kibunjia revealed the report and said that the heritage sites are at risk from coastal flooding and erosion due to sea-level rise.
Dr Kibunjia said they are seeking funds from the National Treasury and partners interested in the conservation and preservation of historical monuments in rehabilitating heritage sites facing perilous future. The NMK has also approached the European Union (EU) which is funding blue economy projects for funds towards conservation and preservation efforts.
Tidal erosion
The State Corporation that manages museums and sites needs to urgently safeguard foundations of Siyu forte (Lamu), Shimoni slave cave (Kwale) and Jumba La Mtwana (Kilifi) which are facing imminent collapse due to tidal erosion.
“Historical sites which are also the country’s greatest tourist attractions are under threat from coastal erosion that is chipping away at platforms that have supported them for generations. Extreme tidal waves caused by a warming planet are constantly buffeting iconic and historical sites along the shoreline leaving the heritage sites at great risk,” said Dr Kibunjia.
“The natural world heritage sites are not just iconic places with exceptional nature, they also provide benefits that contribute to human well-being and prosperity. We are bound to experience losses to the tourism industry should the historical and ancient sites fall victim to a warming planet”, he added.
