Turkana Tourism and Cultural Festival begins in Lodwar

Turkana Tourism and Cultural Festival (Tobong Loree) commenced on Thursday at Ekaales Centre Lodwar. The event was officially opened by Defense Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa.

The event brought together representatives from Ethiopia, South Sudan and Uganda and the neighbouring counties of Pokot, Samburu, Laikipia and Trans Nzoia.

The event, which was last celebrated in 2019, was interrupted by the Covid-19 outbreak that put the country under lock down for a long time.  

During the event Mr Wamalwa urged leaders to keep politics out of the cultural event. He said the event was meant to foster peace.  

He said that through the Tobong Loree festival, they were able to sign the peace agreement in Uganda in 2019. He added that out of the festival, President Uhuru Kenyatta had commissioned the building of three dams that will solve water problems for pastoralists in Turkana, Pokot and Samburu counties.

Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok said Covid-19 interfered with many events but they are now back on track to revive all activities that had stalled.

Mr Nanok emphasised that through such events, the people who share a common culture and ideals can solve their problems, especially issues of insecurity and sharing of resources.

Speaker of Turkana County Assembly Erastus Lokaale said the cultural event brings pride to the people of Turkana and the neighbouring brothers and sisters in Uganda, Ethiopia and South Sudan.

Mr Fransis Koli, on behalf of the Minister for Karamoja Affairs, urged Turkana residents and their neighbors to remain united. He reiterated Uganda’s support for the festivals.