By John Kariuki
Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, expressed her honor in welcoming distinguished leaders, including H.E. President William Ruto, Uganda’s President H.E. Yoweri Museveni, and AUC Chairperson candidate H.E. Raila Odinga, to the fourth Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Siaya County.
The festival, a celebration of the rich heritage of the Luo community, showcased traditional music, dance, storytelling, and exhibitions of art, crafts, and cuisine. Attendees were immersed in the vibrant cultural expressions that define the Luo identity and its contribution to Kenya’s cultural tapestry.
A significant highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium. The occasion was marked by a friendly football match between Kenya’s Gor Mahia FC and Uganda’s Kitara FC, symbolizing regional unity and the shared cultural bonds between the two nations.
Speaking at the event, Miano emphasized the importance of cultural festivals in fostering unity, promoting tourism, and strengthening cross-border ties. “Such festivals remind us of the profound role cultural heritage plays in bringing communities together, fostering understanding, and contributing to our socio-economic development,” she remarked.
The Piny Luo Cultural Festival continues to position itself as a beacon of cultural preservation and an avenue for regional cooperation. This year’s event served not only as a celebration of Luo traditions but also as a platform for reinforcing the shared values and connections among East African nations.