Senate seeks public input on Culture Bill 2024
By Kenneth Mwenda, July 25, 2025Kenyans are being urged to submit their views on the Culture Bill, 2024 (National Assembly Bills No. 12 of 2024), which is currently under consideration in the Senate.
The Bill, which was read for the first time in the Senate on July 16, 2025, has been referred to the Standing Committee on Labour and Social Welfare for further scrutiny.
“The Senate invites you to submit your views on the Culture Bill, 2024 (National Assembly Bills No. 12 of 2024),” the Senate posted on their X on Friday, July 25, 2025.
The Bill seeks to promote national identity and cultural expression, aligning with Article 11 of the Constitution. It aims to protect Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage while ensuring that communities benefit economically from the use of their traditions and practices through compensation and royalties. It also outlines a framework for national cultural development, encompassing literature, the arts, traditional celebrations, science, media, and other cultural expressions.
Public urged to participate
In line with Article 118 of the Constitution and Standing Order 145(5) of the Senate, the Committee has invited members of the public to actively participate in shaping the legislation. Interested individuals, cultural organizations, scholars, and community representatives are encouraged to submit written memoranda stating their views, suggestions, or concerns regarding the Bill.
Submissions should be addressed to the Clerk of the Senate and may be delivered by hand to the Office of the Clerk at the Main Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, sent by post, or emailed through the official channels. All memoranda must be received by Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 5:00 pm.
In addition, a public hearing on the Bill will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Mini Chamber on the First Floor of the County Hall Building in Nairobi. This session offers members of the public an opportunity to voice their opinions directly to the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare.
The full text of the Culture Bill, 2024, along with a simplified digest of its contents, is available on the Parliament of Kenya website.