Kisumu: Festive cheer lit up Kisumu City on Christmas Eve after Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o presided over the lighting of the Christmas tree at the KCB roundabout at 10pm, drawing hundreds of residents into the city centre for the annual celebration.
According to Kenya News Agency, the governor was accompanied by Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga and several county executives, even as families, youngsters, and traders gathered to usher in the holiday season amid music, fireworks, and colourful decorations that transformed the busy roundabout into a focal point of celebration.
Addressing the crowd, Prof. Nyong’o wished residents a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, urging them to embrace unity and goodwill. He expressed wishes for good tidings in all sectors of society, highlighting the calm weather and vibrant turnout as reflections of the season’s optimism.
The governor noted that Christmas is a time for families to reunite, as many Kenyans working in cities and neighbouring countries traditionally travel home during the festive period. He mentioned the increased travel between Nairobi and Kisumu due to the festive rush.
Prof. Nyong’o also emphasized the economic boost brought by the holiday season, with the influx of visitors and heightened activity in entertainment spots, restaurants, and recreational areas benefiting the local economy. He cited popular leisure destinations and eateries in the city that recorded increased traffic as residents and visitors celebrated Christmas in Kisumu.
The event was part of efforts to enhance Kisumu’s status as a vibrant and welcoming city. As the lights came on and fireworks illuminated the night sky, residents lingered around the decorated tree, taking photos and celebrating, marking the official start of Christmas festivities in the lakeside city.
The celebration is expected to continue through the weekend with two major events planned. On Friday, celebrated Luo musician Coster Ojwang and other artists will stage a family show at Tom Mboya Labour College, followed by a music concert dubbed the Fisherman Experience on Saturday at the same venue. Additionally, on Saturday, the city will host the first-ever drift show in the lakeside, organized by the city management and Al Hisnain Motors, expected to attract thousands of motor lovers from other parts of the country.