voices-2013-2&3 - EATWOT's International Theological Commission

Tulwab Kipsigis: The Sacred Mountain of Kipsigis People of Kenya · 83population. Yet what we found was nearly barren landscape withmiserable toadstool huts scattered over the face of it. 7Another missionary, Hellen Kellog observed that as Europeanswere settling in Kenya, “they encountered a very independent tribe ofAfrica by name of Kipsigis who lived in a beautiful highland section ofthe country. 8 Today, this land is well known for its vast tea plantationsand one of the largest producers of tea in the world.In this section, I shall outline some ideas on how Tulwab Kipsigiscan be developed as a tourist attraction site. The suggestions put forth arenot meant to attract foreign tourist only but to encourage local tourismas well. It will also serve to demonstrate the African culture and religionand in particular the religious practices of the Kipsigis people. It is alsomeant to make the site a center of activities throughout the year for thebenefit of both tourists and the local community.a) Developing the top of Tulwab KipsigisThe accessibility to the top of Tulwab Kipsigis is currently notvery good. There is a difficult path which not everyone to climb. Thereis need to make it possible for everyone who wishes to climb it to do sowith ease. Since the mountain is rather steep, a paved path is necessaryespecially during rainy seasons. The path could follow where the presentroute is, starting from the Keserio forest guard station to the top. Otherexciting paths could be designed for those who are more adventures likemountain climbers and hikers.A spiral road could also be constructed to the top of the mountain.This however, will destroy the environment and the beautiful sceneryof the mountain. An alternative to this would be high electric car lifts.Though an expensive venture, this would enable the people to enjoy betterscenery of the mountain and the surrounding. Besides saving time,this facility will ensure that those who do not prefer or are unable to walkcan still reach the top of the mountain.At the top, several powerful binoculars should be placed in strategicpositions. With this facility, tourist can see as far as Mt. Elgon,Menengai Crater, the entire Kalenjin land and Western Mau forest. Indeed,one can trace the movement of the Kipsigis people from Mt. Elgon to thepresent settlement from the spot.As suggested by the Kipsigis elders mentioned early, a hall ofprayer for all faiths is appropriate here. In accordance to African worldview, the hall should be circular with an alter in the center. This shouldbe done without tempering with the environment as much as possible.Sacred symbol, statues and portrait of all religions of the world shouldbe displaced on the walls of the hall. Certain common ethical teaching