The much-anticipated third edition of the Maa Cultural Festival is set to take place this November, bringing together communities from across the Maa-speaking counties to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.

Maasai is one of the most recognisable indigenous ethnic groups in Africa that live astride Kenya and Tanzania.

The annual event, which serves as a unifying platform for the Maasai, Samburu, Ilchamus and other Maa-speaking communities from Laikipia and the neighbouring Tanzania, will showcase traditional dances, songs, attire, cuisine and artefacts, highlighting the beauty and diversity of Maa culture.

According to Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku, this year’s edition will be held in Amboseli National Park under the theme Promoting Maa Cultural Expressions for Socio-Economic Development.

The governor affirmed Kajiado’s readiness to host the event whose first and second editions were held in Narok and Samburu Counties respectively.

“We are happy to celebrate our rich culture, share it with our Kenyan brothers and sisters and the world at large while also having a conversation around development,” he said.

The governor revealed that President William Ruto would be gracing the event and that leaders from neighbouring Maa-speaking counties including Narok, Samburu and Laikipia were also expected to attend, alongside dignitaries from national and regional governments.

The Kajiado County Investment Authority (KCIA) is inviting exhibitors, innovators and investors to showcase their products and services during the festival. The exhibition categories are cultural products, tourism and hospitality, agribusiness, renewable energy, finance and investment, arts and design and youth innovations.

The event aims to promote cultural preservation, foster unity among Maa communities and attract both local and international tourists.

Since its inception, the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival has become a key event on Kenya’s cultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors and boosting cultural tourism in the region.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Diana Meneto