Eldoret: Uasin Gishu County has opened its doors for the 2025 Cultural Festival, uniting youth groups, church choirs, cultural teams, and technical experts from across the county to celebrate human creativity and diversity. The event, held in Eldoret, acts as a precursor to the upcoming Kenya National Music and Cultural Festival, scheduled to take place in Uasin Gishu from November 28 to December 8, 2025.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the event, County Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea urged local residents, cultural teams, and leaders to unite and prepare for the forthcoming cultural and governance event. He acknowledged the efforts of cultural groups, youth organizations, church teams, and technical departments in organizing the event. Kapkea emphasized the importance of representing Uasin Gishu at its best before national leaders, including the president.
Kapkea also highlighted the need for residents to value and preserve their cultural heritage. He noted that the county’s diverse communities, including the Borana and Nandi, should continue promoting culture and long-standing community values and virtues such as discipline, hard work, honesty, and integrity. He stressed that culture is the foundation of unity and identity, and losing it would mean losing the country’s strength and values.
The Deputy Governor further affirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting youth and women through development programs such as the planned Governor’s Cup. He assured that funds have been allocated for these initiatives and encouraged all residents to collaborate for their success. Kapkea underscored the county’s readiness to support and promote culture, talent, and community development.
County Director for Culture Mohamed Dakane stated that this year’s festival has attracted 78 groups from all wards in the county. He explained that the event promotes peace, friendship, and talent development among communities. Dakane announced that international visitors from Poland will attend the festivals to explore partnerships that could lead to local cultural groups performing in Europe next year. He added that the theme for this year’s festival, “Threads of Culture, Weaves of Opportunity,” reflects the county’s commitment to using culture to create opportunities and promote unity.
Dakane expressed hope that Uasin Gishu, which finished second nationally last year with 81 trophies, aims to secure the top spot this year. The county plans to select about 30 groups to represent it at the national level, an increase from 13 groups last year. The event was attended by several leaders, County Assembly members, and representatives from Eldoret National Polytechnic, who pledged their support and donated trophies for the winners. Adjudicators from across the country will assist in identifying the best-performing teams to represent the county.
