Artistic expression is not a new occurrence. The desire to create art predates modern history and affirms that the appreciation of beauty is as old as time. The earliest evidence of prehistoric art occurs in the form of rock paintings and engravings. Scattered across the African continent are caves, cliffs, and rock shelters. These surfaces hold hand-etched art, with one of the most prominent of these locations in Kenya’s Busia County.
Rock of the Ages
From a distance, Kakapel Rock looks like every other granite outcrop that characterizes Busia’s landscape. But unlike the rest of the rock formations in the region, Kakapel has two distinct features that set it apart. The first is its size. Standing at the height of 270 metres, it is not easy to miss. Kakapel Rock attracts hikers and rock climbers searching for adventure. It rewards those who scale to the top with a sweeping view of Busia. This vantage point offers scenic views of the lush green surroundings, Mount Elgon as it towers from afar, and even a glimpse into neighbouring Uganda. The second feature, which holds more cultural significance, is the rock art that is over 2000 years old.
At the base of Kakapel Rock are three caves that hold these ancient treasures. The cave walls are decorated with art said to be the oldest in East and Central Africa. The first cave features finger paintings of geometric designs done in a natural red pigment. The second has rock art of domestic animals as well as an elephant, and the final is another finger painting that is a fusion of domestic animals and geometric designs. Some of these designs are believed to be rain-making and initiation symbols.
The Artists of Kakapel
The depiction of animals in the Kakapel artwork stemmed from the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the Abatwa community who created the murals. Simply known as the Twa, this community once inhabited this area situated within the Great Lakes region before migrating further south to occupy present-day Uganda, DR Congo, Rwanda, and Burundi. The Iteso, Bukusu, and Sabaot each migrated into the area after the relocation of the Twa. These communities are the current custodians of Kakapel Rock and its invaluable art. The grounds are an integral part of community life and culture, with the Bukusu performing their long-standing initiation rituals inside the caves.
Community Engagement in Preservation of Culture
Over the years, Kakapel has appealed to a myriad of visitors, from archaeologists to nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. Because of its heritage to humanity, Kakapel Rock and its caves, collectively known as Kakapel Rock Shelter, was decreed a national monument on 1st July 2004. This gazettement spurred local communities to take action and become a part of its preservation. The Kakapel Cultural Community Centre was officially opened in a colourful ceremony attended by community members on 20th April 2010. The centre encompasses the rock shelter and offers a brilliant showcase of Iteso culture. National Museums of Kenya administers the site while the community and The Trust for African Rock Art manage it in partnership.
Have you climbed Kakapel Rock or marvelled at the rare wall paintings? Share your thoughts on the art and the culture of the place!
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