The 9th edition of the Tobong’u Lore cultural festival officially commenced today at the Ekalees Centre in Turkana County with interdenominational prayers, as residents reflected on major development promises made by President William Samoei Ruto during the previous edition of the event in October 2024.
The week-long festival, themed “Cradle of Humanity; Home of Culture, A Journey through Turkana,” brings together communities, cultural practitioners, and visitors from across Kenya and beyond to celebrate Turkana’s rich heritage, tourism potential, and identity.
However, as celebrations begin, attention has also turned to the status of more than KSh 2 billion in commitments announced by the President during the 8th edition of Tobong’u Lore.
Among the key pledges made in 2024 were the construction of a world-class museum and science park at Namorutunga, a KSh 49 million allocation to support Tobong’u Lore functions, and a KSh 360 million facelift for Turkana University.
The President also announced that KSh 900 million had been budgeted for the construction of a power transmission line from Turkwel to Lodwar, alongside plans for a 50-hectare irrigation farm along the Turkana–West Pokot border. Additionally, he pledged to harmonise the long-standing conflict between Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and fishermen at Lake Turkana.
As the 9th edition begins, residents and local leaders say the festival presents an opportunity not only to celebrate culture but also to take stock of progress made on these commitments, which they view as critical to unlocking Turkana’s economic and social development.
The opening ceremony was led by religious leaders from various Christian denominations, alongside Muslim representatives, underscoring the inclusive and unifying spirit of the festival.
Prayers focused on peace, harmony, and prosperity for the people of Turkana County and the success of the cultural celebrations.
Speaking during the prayers, Bishop James Louren, Chairperson of the Lodwar Pastors Fellowship, emphasised the importance of Tobong’u Lore as both a cultural and reflective moment for the community.
“This is a time to celebrate our heritage, but also to come together as one people. We pray for peace in our region and that this festival will bring joy and prosperity to our community,” he said.
Bishop Louren also called for unity among countries bordering Turkana County and stronger bonds within the Ateker cluster communities.
Representing the Muslim community, Sheikh Elvis Mohammed of Jamia Mosque echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the role of interfaith collaboration in promoting peace.
“Today we stand together, regardless of our religious differences, to ask for blessings and unity from Allah,” he said.
Over the years, Tobong’u Lore has grown from a local cultural gathering into a major international tourism event, showcasing traditional dances, music, foods, and crafts of the Turkana people.
Organisers say the festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors, boosting local tourism and the economy.
The Miss Tourism Turkana event is expected to close today’s programme, while the festival’s grand opening, anticipated to be officiated by President Ruto, is scheduled for tomorrow.
For many in Turkana, this year’s Tobong’u Lore is not only a celebration of culture and heritage but also a moment to renew calls for the timely implementation of development promises they say could transform the region.