National Museums of Kenya

The National Museums of Kenya is a non-profit organisation, whose mission is to collect, document and preserve, study and present our past and present cultural and natural heritage; and to enhance knowledge, appreciation and respect, management and use of these resources for the benefit of Kenya and the world. Vested in the NMK, the Antiquities and Monuments Act of 1983, isthe legislative authority which governs all the movable and immovable heritage of historical, archaeological and/or palaeontological significance in the country. From its beginnings as a small repository of natural history specimens, the Museum has grown over the years into a multi-disciplinary research institute of international repute which hosts over twenty departments and divisions, including Archaeology, Palaeontology, Mammalogy, and Education. It is also host to centres of scientific excellence, such as the East African Herbarium, the Centre for Biodiversity, and the Institute of Primate Research. There are 15 regional museums throughout the country, and 8 historical/archaeological sites open to the public.

One of the main objectives of the NMK is to create public awareness about the importance of conservation, and in particular of preserving Kenya's unique natural and cultural diversity.This is achieved through public programmes such as permanent, temporary and travelling exhibitions, educational programmes for the youth (from primary to university levels), and the production of Museum publications. To this end, the NMK has also begun to explore new technologies such as the Internet and Multimedia as a way of reaching its target audience.

Museums entering the 21st century must not only gear their efforts towards dynamic exhibitions, but must also keep abreast of new developments in technology. Among some of the latest technologies positively affecting museum operations globally are the advent of multimedia and communications. Most museums and museum associations around the world are connected to the Internet, which has made the sharing and exchange of ideas and information easier.

The National Museums of Kenya has taken the technological challenges facing museums world-wide head on. Already in place is the NMK's Web site, which was created by the museums' very own Computer Services Department staff. In charge of the development of the site is now a dedicated team of museum professionals from diverse backgrounds, including computer, archaeology, education and public relations. The site was designed specifically to give viewers the best possible overview of such a diverse institution. Resources on the Web site include information on scientific/research departments, new exhibitions, Nairobi Museum galleries, regional museums, sites and monuments, upcoming events and activities, and affiliated programmes and groups such as the various friends of museumsÆ societies, East African Natural History Society, and the Museum Art Studio.

While the overall structure and content of the site meet current expectations, it is the NMK's aim to explore new avenues of development, such as searchable databases, collections on-line, and virtual gallery tours. The NMK's web site is the second major museum web site in the region, and the NMK is keen to take up the tremendous role it has to play in spearheading multimedia projects for African Museums into the 21st century.

P.O. Box 40658
Nairobi, Kenya
Tel. (02) 742131
Fax. (02) 741424
Email : nmk@africaonline.co.ke