The third edition of the Maa Cultural Festival has officially kicked off in Amboseli National Park, bringing together thousands of participants from Kajiado, Narok, Samburu and neighbouring Tanzania to partake of the rich heritage, traditions and unity of the Maasai community.

The five-day festival being held at Amboseli National Park was officially opened by Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku, alongside Narok’s Governor Patrick ole Ntutu and Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit.

This year’s theme, Preserving Culture, Promoting Unity and Economic Empowerment, focuses on safeguarding Maasai traditions and fostering social cohesion and economic empowerment.

Colourful traditional dances, music, beadwork exhibitions, traditional foods and livestock activities marked the opening ceremony, showcasing the deep-rooted identity and pride of the Maasai people.

Governor Lenku praised the festival as a unifying event that not only promotes culture but also gives the community a chance to deliberate on their future.

“We are very proud of our culture, as it is our identity. Through this festival, we celebrate who we are as we also teach our young people the important components of Maa culture,” said the governor.

Lenku also noted that apart from culture celebrations, the festival also provides an opportunity for the Maa community to discuss other important issues such as education, modulated pastoralism and civic education among others.

Narok County Governor Patrick ole Ntutu said that the festival provides an opportunity to integrate Maasai cultural heritage with opportunities in tourism and economic empowerment.

“We are also looking at the current challenges we face as a community and how we will solve them,” said Ntutu.

On his part, Lati Lelelit, said that wildlife and Maasai culture are the two major tourist attraction activities in Kenya and invited everyone to attend and witness the vibrant culture and splendour of the Maasai.

The event is expected to run until November 9 with performances, cultural dialogues and exhibitions from various Maa-speaking communities across Kenya and Tanzania.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Diana Meneto