Treasures of Africa Museum | Kitale

Information

Landmark: Treasures of Africa Museum
City: Kitale
Country: Kenya
Continent: Africa

Treasures of Africa Museum, Kitale, Kenya, Africa

The Treasures of Africa Museum is a cultural institution located in Kitale, Kenya. It houses a collection of artifacts representing the heritage of various African communities.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a single-story structure constructed from red brick. It features a corrugated iron roof and has a simple, rectangular design. The main entrance is marked by a wooden door and a small, paved walkway leads to it. The exterior walls are painted a light cream color.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated approximately 2 kilometers west of Kitale's central business district. Access is via the B2 Nairobi-Malaba road. Turn south onto a gravel road approximately 500 meters after the Kitale National Museum turn-off. Parking is available on-site in an unpaved lot adjacent to the building. No public transport directly serves the museum; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or taxi from Kitale town.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was originally constructed in 1958 as a community hall. It was later repurposed and opened as the Treasures of Africa Museum in 1992. The collection focuses on ethnographic artifacts, including tools, pottery, beadwork, and musical instruments from communities across Kenya and neighboring countries.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view exhibits detailing traditional crafts, agricultural practices, and social customs. Specific displays include a collection of Maasai beadwork, Kikuyu ceremonial attire, and Luhya musical instruments. Photography of exhibits is permitted without flash.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited shaded seating is provided outside the main entrance. Cell phone signal (3G) is generally available. No food vendors are located on-site; visitors should plan to eat in Kitale town.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time for photography is during midday when natural light is strongest inside the exhibition halls. The dry season, from June to October, offers the most comfortable weather for travel to Kitale.

Facts & Legends

A notable artifact within the collection is a ceremonial drum said to have been used by elders of the Nandi community for important announcements. Local lore suggests that the drum's resonance could carry messages for miles.