Naema Celestine 
Faith Nyongesa
Kenya’s public holiday on October 10 has officially been renamed from Utamaduni Day to Mazingira Day.
This change was implemented after President William Ruto signed the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill on Wednesday.
The newly passed Bill modifies the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110), replacing Utamaduni Day with Mazingira Day. This public holiday will now be observed annually on October 10.The primary goal of this amendment is to enhance the government’s initiatives focused on environmental protection and conservation.
It reflects a growing commitment to addressing environmental issues in the country.Mazingira Day is intended to encourage all Kenyans to actively engage in activities that promote the conservation of the environment. The emphasis is on collective participation in preserving and protecting natural resources.
In addition to the name change for the holiday, the new law also introduces amendments to at least 16 Acts of Parliament. These changes align with the broader objectives of fostering environmental sustainability.The establishment of Mazingira Day is part of a strategic move to raise awareness about the importance of caring for the environment.
It serves as a reminder for citizens to take action in their communities.Through this holiday, the government aims to inspire a culture of environmental stewardship among the populace. Engaging in conservation activities is seen as essential for the health of the nation’s ecosystems.
Overall, the transition from Utamaduni Day to Mazingira Day marks a significant shift towards prioritizing environmental issues in Kenya’s national agenda. The hope is that this new holiday will galvanize efforts toward a more sustainable future.
