By Senate Press Team
The Senate Deputy Speaker, Senator Kathuri Murungi yesterday attended the official opening of the inaugural UNESCO Regional Geoparks workshop in Kabarnet town, Baringo County.
The Deputy Speaker was accompanied by Baringo Senator William Cheptumo and Wajir Senator Sheikh Abbas.
The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO together with Baringo County Government is coordinating the first Geopark designated in Kenya which will be known as Baringo Great Rift Valley Aspiring Geopark.
Geopark are sites and landscapes on international geological significance and are managed to protect, educate and encourage sustainable development.
The Deputy Speaker while making his opening remarks appreciated the spirit of the Geopark model which he noted is consistent with the Kenyan spirit of conserving and protecting her heritage.
He assured the commission of the Senate’s support to ensure that enough resources is allocated to counties.
“As Geoparks require resources and infrastructure to be run effectively to the best of international standards,as Senators we commit to support in whichever role to ensure it is possible.
He further expressed hope that Baringo Great Rift Valley will be formally recognised as UNESCO Global Geopark.
This, he noted, will come will good tidings including increased tourism and revenue for our counties.
The 4-day conference was opened by Tourism Wildlife and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Penninah Malonza.
Dennis Dibondo