Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Tarus, led the National Defence College (NDC) fraternity and invited guests in celebrating the annual NDC Cultural Day on 18 January 2025. The event was held at Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum.
Participants of Course 27 (2024/25) showcased their rich cultural diversity and heritage through displays of traditional foods and delicacies, songs, dances, cultural artifacts, clothing, and intricate costumes representing various communities.
The Cultural Day, themed “Mitigating Climate Change through Culture,” emphasized the link between cultural practices and environmental sustainability. The event highlighted how indigenous knowledge and traditional practices can contribute to addressing climate change challenges. It also stressed the importance of integrating cultural heritage with modern strategies to foster resilience and sustainable development, reinforcing cultural identity as a key tool in solving contemporary global issues.
The celebration featured participants from 66 countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, Botswana, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Malawi, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan, Zambia, and Somalia. Guests were treated to spectacular performances by local and international communities, including the renowned Drummers of Burundi, Nigerian Drummers, Indian Dancers, and music by the Maroon Commandos Band, among others.
In his remarks, Lieutenant General David Tarus Commended the organization, ambiance, and cultural displays, emphasizing NDC’s role as a center of excellence committed to finding impactful solutions for Kenya and allied nations. He underscored the relevance of the theme, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between culture and climate change, and called on attendees to be responsible environmental stewards to protect cultural diversity and the planet’s inhabitants.
“Cultural diversity can only thrive when the environment is protected. Culture grows from our understanding and relationship with the environment. It is time to recognize our roles as cultural stewards in safeguarding the planet,” said Lt. General Tarus.
The Chief Guest encouraged stakeholders to address climate change actively, emphasizing the role of culture in prevention and mitigation. He urged everyone to support the National Tree Planting Restoration campaign, which aims to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, encouraging individuals to plant at least 30 trees annually.
Lt. General Tarus applauded course participants for their efforts in planting over 5,000 trees in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, and urged others to follow their example in preserving the environment and combating climate change.
Commandant NDC, Lieutenant General Juma Mwinyikai, highlighted the importance of cultural relations in shaping an inclusive and effective global response to climate change. He emphasized the role of science, technology, and education in building climate resilience.
The event also brought together members of the Diplomatic Corps from various allied countries, the Commander Kenya Air Force, Major General Fatuma Ahmed, senior directing staff, senior military officers, government representatives, and invited guests.
As part of its mandate, the National Defence College remains committed to developing critical strategic leaders from military and civilian sectors, fostering an understanding of security and strategy at both national and international levels. NDC is a College of National Defence University-Kenya.
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