The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations has toured Uhuru Gardens to inspect ongoing works undertaken by the Kenya Defence Forces to establish a National Monument and Museum at the historical site.

The facility sits on a 68-acre parcel of land; a hallowed ground where the Union Jack (British flag) was first lowered and the Kenyan flag hoisted, with the  National Anthem being sung for the first time on December 12, 1963.

During the tour, the Committee Chaired by Hon. Nelson Koech was given a status update on the ongoing works at the facility. The facility is expected to open its doors to the public soon.

A National Monument and Museum will preserve and showcase the best of Kenyan history, culture, heritage, innovation, aspirations and hopes. 

Hon. Koech said the project is an important undertaking by the Kenyan Government and pledged to work closely with the Department of Defence to avail the necessary support towards completion of the facility.

"This is a great manifestation of the unique unharnessed skills of our Defence Forces, and we will provide the necessary support towards completion of this facility," said Hon. Koech.

The KDF team, led by the Vice-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Francis Ogolla accompanied by Colonel Oswald Opiyo who is in charge of the project, took Committee Members on the tour. 

Members were taken through The Tunnel of Matyrs that honours heroes of Kenya's fight for independence, the Hall of Legends that showcases the lives of among others the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Mekatilili wa Menza, Koitalel arap Samoei, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Nabongo Mumia among others.

Committee Members present during the tour were Hon. Hassan Yusuf (Kamukunji), Hon. Martha Wangari (Gilgil), Hon. Elijah Memusi (Kajiado-Central), Hon. Teresia Mwangi (Nominated), Hon. Clement Sloya (Sabatia), Hon. Joshua Kandie (Baringo-Central), Hon  Zachary Thuku (Kinangop), Hon. (Dr.) Irene Kasalu (Kitui) and Hon. Fredrick Ikana (Shinyalu).