By Elizabeth Ochogo
The County Government of Siaya, through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Sports and Arts (TCSA), is set to participate in the forthcoming 1st International Investment Conference and Trade Fair on Indigenous Knowledge Intellectual Assets (IKIA), scheduled to take place in Murang'a County from April 21 to 23, 2026.
The conference aims to transform indigenous knowledge from a purely cultural resource into an investable development asset.
Its key objectives include the documentation and preservation of indigenous knowledge systems; the commercialization and value addition of traditional products and practices; the mobilization of investments for indigenous innovations; policy dialogue on protecting community intellectual property rights; and linking indigenous knowledge to climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
This landmark event will bring together representatives from 13 of Kenya's 47 counties to showcase their unique indigenous assets on a national and international stage. In a preparatory meeting chaired by Mr. John Amimo, Tourism and Culture Officer and System Administrator for Natural Products—representatives from Siaya confirmed that all required products and materials are ready. They expressed full commitment to attending and participating actively, with the goal of attracting the maximum number of potential investors to Siaya County.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Luo Council of Elders, youth champions, community informants, and several department staff members.
Initially, Siaya proposed eleven items across various categories for showcasing, of which ten were selected:
- Local Cuisine: Aliya and kerewe
- Traditional Medicines: Treatments for diabetes and snakebite antivenom
- Musicology: Nyatiti and orutu
- Traditional Technology: Od lum and pottery
- Traditional Practices: Tero buru
- Traditional Monuments: Got Ramogi
This conference represents a pivotal opportunity for the people of Siaya. By showcasing their rich indigenous heritage rooted in Luo traditions, natural innovations, and sacred sites like Got Ramogi, it opens doors to economic empowerment, job creation, sustainable development, and global recognition. Participation will not only preserve and monetize Siaya's unique cultural assets but also foster long-term investments that enhance livelihoods, build climate resilience, and ensure that future generations benefit from their ancestral knowledge.