Culture, Rhythm, and Pride as Uasin Gishu Launches Music and Culture Festival

The sound of drums, the shimmer of traditional attire, and the vibrant rhythm of dance filled the air at the Home Craft Centre in Pioneer as Uasin Gishu County officially kicked off its Music and Culture Festival. The event marks the beginning of the Kenya Music and Cultural Festival season, set to run from November 30 to December 8 at Moi Girls High School, Eldoret.

For a county known for its energy, creativity, and unity, the festival is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of identity. From folk songs to spoken word and modern dance, 78 performance groups converged with one shared dream: to represent Uasin Gishu on the national stage. Only 30 will make it through, but for many, the chance to perform for their community is already a victory.

Deputy Governor John Kapkea, who presided over the opening ceremony, lauded the participants for keeping culture alive in an era dominated by technology and global influences.

 “Our traditions and music define who we are as a people,” he said. “Through these festivals, we tell our story and pass it on to the next generation.”

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Culture, and Social Services, Lucy Ngendo, echoed the sentiment with confidence and ambition. Uasin Gishu, she said, is aiming higher this year.

“We want to move from position two to one since we have invited the Head of State to grace the national event,” Ngendo declared amid applause.

She called on adjudicators to ensure transparency and professionalism so that the teams selected truly represent the county’s best talent.

“Let us be professional and give us a well-deserved team to represent Uasin Gishu,” she added.

Beyond the competition, the festival has become a cultural mirror for the county a space where generations meet through song, dance, and storytelling.

For young people, it’s an opportunity to rediscover pride in their roots. For the community, it’s a reminder of the unity that culture brings.

As the performances continue throughout the week, anticipation builds for the final selection. Whether it’s the graceful Isukuti beats, a soulful choral performance, or a powerful solo recitation, one thing is certain Uasin Gishu’s cultural heartbeat is strong, and it’s ready to take center stage nationally.