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Somali arts and cultural exhibition unveiled at Kenya National Museum

Chairman of Eastleigh Business District Association Ahmed Abdullahi was among the guests at the Somali cultural exhibition at the Kenya National Museum. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)

By Abdirahman Khalif | Saturday, June 29, 2024

This is the first time a Somali cultural exhibition has been held at the Kenya National Museum, and it is expected to run for the next thirty days.

The Somali arts and cultural exhibition was unveiled at the Kenya National Museum in Nairobi on Saturday evening.

The event attracted over 50 ambassadors representing various European and Asian countries in Kenya, several members of the Kenyan Parliament, and members of the Eastleigh Business District Association, led by Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi.

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The event was hosted by Somalia's ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle.

This is the first time a Somali cultural exhibition has been held at the Kenya National Museum, and it is expected to run for the next thirty days.

Ali Said, the director of Gogol Gallery who presented most of the exhibitions, noted that some of the pictures and drawings showcased were created in 1976.

"Most of these pictures and drawings were done in 1976 by Ali Said and his students, and they are still here," said Ali.

Somali cultural artefacts on display at Kenya National Museum in Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)

According to Ali, the exhibits promote peace, interactivity, cultural preservation, and unity.

Ambassador Jabril spoke to Eastleigh Voice about his expectations for the exhibition. He hopes that millions of Kenyans and visitors from other regions will see the Somali cultural artefacts and learn about the history and way of life of Somalia and its people.

"In the next month, millions of Kenyans will have the opportunity to see and learn the culture of the Somali people and the history of Somalia, how it was and how it is now," said Jabril.

The ambassador highlighted the significance of showcasing this exhibition, especially during this week when Somalia is celebrating its independence.

He emphasised that Somalia is not only a country associated with conflict but also one of education, peace, culture, and history.

Omar Abdi, who was among the hundreds of guests, said he came to learn more about Somalia through the exhibition as he has never been to Somalia

"I came here to learn about the culture and history of Somalia because I have never been there myself," said Omar.

Pictures of Somali cultural activities that were presented at the National Museum in Nairobi. (Photo: Ahmed Shafat)

After the exhibition, guests were entertained with several Somali traditional songs.

June 26 is celebrated as Somalia Independence Day, while July 1 marks Republic Day in Somalia. These events are commemorated in Somalia and across its missions abroad, by the African Union Transition Mission troops in the country, United Nations officials, and in states where Somali citizens reside.

For instance, last year, an estimated 40,000 people attended a week-long Somali Independence Day festival in Minneapolis, organised by Somali-led nonprofit organisations.

The Somali arts and cultural exhibition provides a platform for showcasing the rich heritage and history of Somalia, promoting understanding and appreciation among different cultures. Through this event, the Somali community hopes to highlight the positive aspects of their culture and history, fostering unity and cultural exchange.