The government has announced plans to relocate the Kenya National Archives from its iconic position in the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) to a safer and quieter location. This decision follows recent youth-led protests in the city, during which protesters reportedly attempted to torch the historic building.
Speaking on Thursday, August 21, Gender and Culture Principal Secretary (PS) Ummi Bashir explained that the relocation was necessary to safeguard the invaluable collections housed at the facility. She noted that the new site would also offer a more conducive environment for researchers and historians.
“We would like to see how we can safeguard our assets in this building and how we can take it to an environment where researchers can produce content and be comfortable,” said PS Bashir.
For decades, the Archives has stood as both a cultural landmark and a meeting point for Nairobi residents. Beyond its symbolic role in the city, it holds immense historical value. The building was originally constructed in 1930 to serve as a bank and was home to the National and Grindlays Bank for 34 years. After independence, Parliament passed legislation converting it into the National Archives, ensuring the preservation of Kenya’s public records and heritage.
Located between Tom Mboya Street and Moi Avenue, the building is renowned for its unique architecture and extensive collections. Inside, it houses over 40,000 historical photographs, parliamentary records, books, and artefacts that reflect Kenya’s diverse cultural history. Visitors can also view displays of African art, including basketry, pottery, beadwork, textiles, sculptures, and paintings.
The institution’s significance has grown in recent years, particularly after the United Kingdom handed over more than 300,000 digitised files previously classified and kept abroad during the colonial era. These documents have enriched the Archives’ resources, making it a central hub for researchers, students, and cultural enthusiasts.
While the move is aimed at ensuring safety and accessibility, it marks the end of an era for a building that has been part of Nairobi’s cultural identity for decades. The government is expected to announce the new location and transition timelines in the coming months.
