Africa-Press – Kenya. Plans are underway to build a monument at Chetambe to honour gallant traditional soldiers who died in a fierce battle with colonial forces and their collaborators over a century ago. Chetambe Hill in Bungoma County is a historical site where a fierce battle in 1985 pitted the Bukusu community against invading British colonial soldiers and their native allies, resulting in heavy casualties among the Bukusu.
The confrontation, though costly, has since stood as a defining moment in the region’s anti-colonial history.
The battle highlighted the community’s resolute defence, as warriors armed mainly with spears confronted better-equipped colonial forces.
Over time, Chetambe has come to symbolise resistance and sacrifice, cementing its place in the collective memory of the Bukusu and neighbouring communities.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula on Friday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving the site when he joined members of the Tachoni community during their Cultural Festival Day celebrations at the Masinde Muliro Grounds in Webuye East constituency, Bungoma.
Wetang’ula recalled a pledge made in 2016 to establish a monument at Chetambe in honour of the fallen warriors, saying the commitment remained firmly in place.
“That promise is not dead. I want to tell the investor to come to my office so that we can make plans to build our monument at Chetambe. There is no point in having an office here in town; let us have a complex there. Even if the land is private, we shall find money and buy it,” he said.
He explained that the proposed complex would serve both as a memorial site and as a centre that elevates the status of the Tachoni leadership and the wider community.
The Speaker added that the facility should also include office space for leaders and visiting dignitaries.
“Reserve an office for me too, so that when I visit, we have somewhere to sit,” he said.
During the event, Wetang’ula commended the leadership of the Tachoni Culture Network for their efforts in conserving and promoting cultural heritage.
He noted that such cultural events play a critical role in preserving identity, understanding history, fostering diversity and linking generations through shared values, traditions and knowledge.
“I was honoured to be installed as the Tachoni spokesperson, a role I am committed to undertaking with unwavering support to the community that has been key to my political success,” Wetang’ula said.Wetang’ula being installed as the Tachoni spokesperson
He further noted that Webuye township, being the second-largest urban centre in Bungoma County, had been earmarked for upgrades aimed at boosting economic activity and improving services.
Wetang’ula was accompanied by Senate Chief Whip Wafula Wakoli, Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wambilianga, Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, the host Martin Pepela, several Members of County Assembly and other leaders.
