Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has unveiled government plans to elevate the Mungoma Caves in Vihiga County into a national heritage and tourism destination, aiming to preserve cultural identity while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
The caves, known locally as “Hango Humulogoli,” are revered by the Maragoli community as the birthplace of Mulogoli, the legendary founder of the group.
Formed by massive boulders that create winding hollow passages, the site is regarded as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark.
Speaking during his visit, Mudavadi highlighted its historical and educational value, noting that the caves provide a unique window into Maragoli heritage.
“We are committed to developing Mungoma Caves into a site that celebrates our history while supporting local livelihoods,” Mudavadi said.
He emphasized that the project would position the caves as a destination with both national and international appeal.
The initiative will be coordinated through the Ministries of Tourism and Wildlife, and Sports, Culture and Heritage.
The plan includes improving road access, providing reliable electricity and water, and empowering the surrounding communities to benefit economically from tourism activities.
Mungoma Caves have long been a symbol of cultural pride in Vihiga County. Local leaders have advocated for government investment to preserve the site and leverage it as a tourist attraction capable of drawing visitors beyond western Kenya.
Mudavadi’s announcement responds to these calls while aligning with national strategies to use heritage sites to drive socio-economic development.
The Prime CS stressed that the project is not only about infrastructure but also about creating a sustainable model where communities actively participate in preserving and benefiting from their cultural assets.
By integrating community engagement with tourism development, the government aims to ensure long-term sustainability for the site.
If successfully implemented, the Mungoma Caves project could serve as a model for similar heritage initiatives across Kenya, combining historical preservation with community-centered economic growth.