President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Kenya’s President William Ruto were crowned Luo elders at the fourth edition of the Piny Luo Festival in Siaya County, Kenya, marking a significant milestone in East African unity.
“I thank the Luos for making me an elder in the community. I think this is an honour for the people of Uganda,” President Museveni said, expressing his gratitude to the Luo community for recognizing him for the fourth time.
The crowning ceremony, performed by the Ker (cultural leader) of Luo, Odungi Randa, was a symbol of the unity and shared heritage among East African communities.
President Museveni emphasized the importance of regional integration, stating that the Piny Luo festival should lead to the East African Federation to achieve prosperity in the region.
He noted that Africa’s history has been marked by colonization and the slave trade, but the continent has made significant progress in achieving independence.
“They had four historical missions of chasing the foreigners and getting independence, creating prosperity for the African people, and ensuring strategic security by ensuring that Africa should not be under threat from anybody,” President Museveni explained.
President Ruto, who hosted President Museveni at the festival, praised his counterpart’s commitment to East African unity.
“You have demonstrated resilience. When I requested you to come, you graciously informed me that any event that brings East Africans together you’ll attend without any hesitation,” President Ruto said.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and the Governor of Siaya County, James Orengo.
Rt. Hon. Odinga emphasized the need for East Africans to promote trade and economic integration, stating that Africa trades more with others than itself.
President Ruto announced the official opening of the Lamogi campus of Nyang’oma Technical Training College, which will admit students beginning this January.
The festival featured various cultural activities, including traditional prayers, dances, and folklore, showcasing the rich heritage of the Luo community.
The event culminated in a friendly football match between Kenya’s Gor Mahia and Uganda’s Kitara FC, which ended in favor of the hosts.
President Museveni urged the people of East Africa to create wealth through commercial agriculture, ICT, services, and manufacturing, congratulating Gor Mahia FC for their win.
The Piny Luo festival has become a symbol of East African unity, promoting peace, reconciliation, and cultural exchange among communities.
