The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) on Friday hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their visit to Fort Jesus National Monument in Mombasa, Kenya.
NMK says the visit served as a momentous occasion, symbolizing the deep historical connections between Kenya and Britain, as well as showcasing the efforts to protect and preserve cultural heritage.
Professor Mary Gikungu, Director General of the National Museums of Kenya said their Majesties visit to Fort Jesus underscores the enduring Kenya and Britain connection and highlights the Fort's vital role in preserving our cultural heritage.
Gikungu said the visit will boost tourism, drawing attention to the country's rich history.
"At National Museums of Kenya, we remain committed to safeguarding Kenya’s past and present cultural heritage, and this visit only strengthens our resolve to ensure the legacy of Fort Jesus endures for generations to come," Gikungu stated.
Fatma Twahir, the Principal Curator of Fort Jesus World Heritage Site, expressed her excitement at hosting Their Majesties, emphasizing the monument's importance as a World Heritage Site and a testament to Kenya's rich history.
The Royal visit underscored the significance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations, reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding Kenya's diverse heritage.
Fort Jesus faces a significant challenge from the effects of climate change, as rising sea levels along the Kenyan coast pose a threat to its structural integrity.
To address this pressing issue, NMK partnered with UNESCO and the Kenyan Government to launch a reclamation and restoration project.
This endeavour led to the establishment of an attractive perimeter garden, elevating the aesthetics of the Old Town and offering a recreational haven for the local community.
Tom Porter, Country Director Kenya, British Council, said:
“Fort Jesus is a wonderful and historic location to highlight the remarkable efforts of the NMK in safeguarding Kenya's rich cultural heritage."
NMK, he noted, has stood as a cherished partner in our Cultural Protection Fund, dedicated to nurturing, preserving, and promoting cultural heritage.
The Fund plays a vital role in the coastal region, renowned for its historical significance, by strengthening disaster risk preparedness at sites such as Jumba la Mtwana, Siyu Fort, Shimoni Slave Caves, and Kongo Mosque.
"We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure the preservation of Kenya’s cultural heritage," he said.
Their Majesties also met with creative entrepreneurs at Fort Jesus.
They ended the visit with a traditional Mijikenda performance, celebrating the richness of Kenyan history and culture.
Their Majesties were also accompanied by UK High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan, the Governor of Mombasa, Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir, and the British Council team who facilitated the visit.
NMK is a state corporation established by an Act of Parliament, the Museums and Heritage Act 2006.
NMK is a multi-disciplinary institution whose role is to collect, preserve, study, document and present Kenya’s past and present cultural and natural heritage