By: Katelyn Jamoul, Student Reporter*

The return or restitution of cultural property to their countries of origin has gained attention as a vital aspect of cultural heritage preservation and ethical considerations. On Saturday night in GA Plenary, Kenya pushed for this mission’s prioritization. Kenya gave an impassioned speech, despite the Committee choosing not to discuss the topic of returning of or restitution for stolen property just yet. Representative Andrew Navarro of Kenya shared a heart-felt story about the “Nganda”, a drum used to call out for community gatherings, treated with great respect. Colonial powers unlawfully took this drum in 1908, now missing from Kenyan society for multiple generations. This drum represents more than a sound, but part of their cultural identity. One elder who lived through years of turmoil and war longed to hear the sweet sound of the Nganda one last time, but unfortunately passed at the age of 99 this year. The Nganda is one of over 33,000 artifacts stolen from the Kenyan people.

Colonialism, wars or illicit trade resulted in numerous artifacts, artworks and cultural objects’ displacement or acquisition, prompting the question before the body on rightful ownership. Kenya, seeing this first hand, works tirelessly with new technology such as three dimensional printing to recreate artifacts currently displayed in other States to preserve their culture. “We are able to allow others to learn about our culture, but also retain our sentiments to our own property,” said Representative Navarro. 

Other Member States also endeavor to repatriate these items, aiming to reclaim their cultural heritage and restore historical narratives. Navigating the complexities around ownership seems straightforward as Representative Navarro said, ”That which was created in our land should be returned or retained in our land.” Though Kenya recognizes this is a time intensive solution, they believe it will start the conversation. This process will involve legal, ethical and diplomatic dimensions and international agreements, representing cultural significance to many States.

_{The views and opinions expressed in this article were part of simulation of the United Nations held from 18 to 21 November 2023 and do not reflect the views and opinions of the American Model United Nations Conference, American Model United Nations International, LLC., *Wichita State University or the governing bodies of the states mentioned in the article.}