Kenya: Friends of the Railway Museum (FORM) update

[John Ashworth]

Update from Museum Curator Maurice Barasa:

STATUS REPORT ON FRIENDS OF THE RAILWAY MUSEUM- EAST AFRICA

The Friends of the Railway Museum (FORM)- East Africa has held several meetings since its registration. Great strides have been achieved through the co-operation of its members. FORM has kept growing its membership. The following have been achieved so far;

Membership cards were printed

FORM`s advertisement brochures too

A bank account was opened

Recruitment of members is on-going

In partnership with Kenya Railways FORM will soon be selling branded gift/souvenir items

FORM has identified the 1950 diesel shunter, class 3205 for restoration. The treasure was mandated to purchase paint and engage workers who would repaint the loco in its original leverage.

Thereafter the engine`s mechanical health will be restored. Engineers from the Rift Valley Railways had a look at it and are confident it will run again. This historic loco will act as a back-up for short distance steam excursions and will help shunt rolling stock within the museum

FORM`s European representative, Geoff Warren reported that he is holding some membership money paid to him by new members. During our last meeting, we agreed that the treasurer should get in touch with Geoff and have the money remitted in FORM`s account .

The next meeting is proposed to be held on 5th November 2011 at 3 pm. The venue will be at the Nairobi Railway Museum. The treasurer will update the meeting on 3205 loco repainting. The secretary will give progress on the acquisition of FORM`s new offices. Thank you