VIHIGA, Kenya – The county government of Vihiga is poised to make history with its County Anthem at a total cost of Sh2.8 million.
While issuing a clarification concerning the ongoing development of the Anthem, considering enquiries and the feedback received from members of the public, Francis Wayne Matika, Director, Governor’s Press Service, said the move aligns with the Vihiga County and Other Symbols Act 2014.
“It was based on that provision that our commitment to fostering identity and championing the rich diversity of our county saw our 2023-2027 County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) (Page 91 – Culture and Heritage and Page 127 – Enhancing access, equity, quality and relevant education and training at all levels of education sections) envision the development of the Vihiga County Anthem,” said Matika.
In a statement seen by News 9 Kenya, Matika indicated that the county strategic plan underwent public participation twice, with input from both the County Executive and the County Assembly of Vihiga ahead of the composition of the Anthem.
“This extensive process incorporated feedback and input from the people of Vihiga County, emphasising social cohesion, identity, and sustainable progress. The CIDP specifically calls for the establishment of the County Anthem and County Band in collaboration with relevant sectors,” the statement reads in part.
According to the legal and policy framework, the Constitution of Kenya (2010) includes provisions related to cultural expression and devolution of power, which are relevant to county identity.
Key articles are: a. Article 11(1): Recognises culture as a foundation of the nation. b. Article 11(2): Directs the State to support all forms of cultural expression.
These articles, according to the devolved unit, establish a constitutional basis for counties to adopt distinctive cultural symbols, such as anthems, as part of their identity and governance.
On the other hand, the County Legislation stipulates the Vihiga County and Other Symbols Act, 2014.
This Act, News 9 Kenya, has established that it provides for the development, adoption, and protection of county symbols, including the Anthem, Flag, Coat of Arms, and Public Seal.
It also establishes the procedures for public participation, approval, and gazettment of these symbols and positions the County Anthem as a symbol of unity, pride, and cultural heritage.
As per the integration in the CIDP 2023-2027 (Pages 91 and 127), the CIDP operationalises the above legal framework by recognising the County Anthem as a priority cultural initiative, embedding it within cross-sectoral strategies that promote education, identity, and heritage, as well as allocating budgetary and administrative support for its full implementation.
The purpose and significance of the County Anthem, according to the regional government, is that it is more than a ceremonial song.
“It stands as a symbol of power, unity and identity, comparable to the County Flag and Public Seal. It reflects the values, history and aspirations of the people of Vihiga and embodies the county’s sovereignty within Kenya’s devolved governance system,” Matika added.
The Anthem will be performed during official county functions, ceremonial events such as flag raising and civic commemorations, and school activities and community celebrations across all sub-counties.
Matika further said the Anthem expresses the County’s authority under Chapter Eleven of the Constitution, reinforces unity and collective identity, upholds the dignity of county institutions, reflects the county’s cultural and historical legacy and is protected by law and restricted to sanctioned use.
News 9 Kenya has also established that the development of the Anthem has been undertaken through a transparent, inclusive, and citizen-driven process.
“The County Government of Vihiga appreciates the public’s interest and engagement and offers the following clarifications: The Anthem is being developed by the people of Vihiga. The appointed selection panel does not create the Anthem but coordinates submissions and guides technical composition based on public input,” said Matika, the county director of communications.
What was considered for the composition of the County Anthem:
Based on the submission of the just-concluded public participation, the following were proposed for consideration in the development of the County Anthem:
1. The Preferred language is Kiswahili to clearly articulate the values and virtues that the residents of Vihiga County are expected to portray: respect, patience, honesty, hard work and commitment to service delivery.
2. Our cultural heritage – the Anthem should refer to the County’s traditions, languages, and historical landmarks.
3. Natural beauty – highlight lush landscapes, forests and rivers that characterise Vihiga County, hence promoting environmental stewardship.
4. Unity and diversity reflect the harmony among different communities within the county and their shared goals towards a better future.
5. Progress and Development – the Anthem should highlight the County’s development aspirations in education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and economic growth.
The devolved unit insists that the Anthem should highlight the County’s development aspirations in education, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and economic growth.
Where the County Anthem composition guidelines can be found:
The process, according to Matika, is guided by Article 232 and Article 174(c) of the Constitution and relevant provisions of the County Government Act and Public Participation Act, which mandate inclusive decision-making in public affairs.
“The composition guidelines will be made available on the County Government website (www.vihiga.go.ke) and publicised via digital media and local radio platforms to encourage the public to participate in composing and submitting potential anthems for consideration by the Selection Panel,” he explained.
Guided by community feedback, the panel will invite local composers who are residents of Vihiga to develop and submit anthem entries within 21 days, ensuring submissions demonstrate high standards of musicality, clarity, and cultural relevance in line with set criteria.
Further, an adjudication panel will evaluate all entries based on originality, musical arrangement, lyrical quality, and thematic alignment, with prizes awarded to the winning anthem as well as recognition for the second and third runners-up.
News 9 Kenya has learnt that the County will retain copyright over the winning composition, and the process is expected to conclude with the unveiling of the new County Anthem in September 2025.
The budget, according to Matika, reflects a modest but accountable investment that prioritises quality and professionalism.
What the budgetary allocation will cover:
1. Engagement of cultural experts, composers, and local artists to ensure authenticity and inclusivity.
2. Professional composition arrangement and production of the final version for widespread adoption.
The County Government of Vihiga is now inviting all residents, particularly youth leaders, cultural stakeholders, and opinion makers, to actively support the Antem development process in good faith.
“Your participation is vital to ensuring that this project reflects the diverse voices and values of Vihiga County. As we embark on this journey, we remain steadfast in our dedication to crafting an Anthem that upholds our shared identity as residents of Vihiga County, respects and celebrates our cultural diversity and serves as a legacy for future generations,” Matika further explained.
Meanwhile, the Governor Wilber Otichilo-led devolved government maintains that the creation of the County Anthem is more than just a project – it is a statement of unity, pride and vision.
“Together, we have an opportunity to contribute to something truly meaningful and historic. Let us all come together to make this Anthem a reflection of our shared values and aspirations.”
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