This archive report was first published on 13 August 2019.
Published on August 13, 2019, the Turkana cultural festival has been hailed for its efforts in promoting peace and cohesion among communities in a region known for banditry.
The festival, which brings together thousands of participants from across national borders, has seen communities that have been fighting over natural resources for decades learn to share and open up to each other.
According to Captain (Rtd) Augustine Lokwang, a senior security advisor in the region, the cultural festival has played a major role in enhancing peace and cohesion among the communities.
"We used to hear of attacks almost on monthly basis. We are not yet there but positive steps have been made in regard to bringing the communities together," Lokwang said.
The festival has also seen the region experience tremendous improvement in terms of infrastructure, including transport and communication, as well as social amenities.
Charles Lokiyoto, the tourism executive, said the four-day festival will attract thousands of participants from as far as Nigeria and will showcase the county's culture day and night with the best performances.
"We are celebrating the 5th year of Tobong'u Lore themed 'celebrating cultural heritage for tourism, peace and regional development,'" Lokiyoto said.
The festival is also expected to attract more investments in the county, with Lokiyoto optimistic of getting more than Sh1 billion this year.
