The third edition of the Maa Cultural Festival is currently underway at Amboseli National Park, drawing thousands of participants from across Kajiado, Narok, Samburu, and neighboring regions in a vibrant celebration of Maasai heritage, unity, and economic empowerment.
The five-day event, which began on Tuesday, November 4, is set to run until Saturday, November 9, with a packed program of performances, exhibitions, and cultural dialogues.
The festival was officially opened by Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku, joined by Narok Governor Patrick ole Ntutu and Samburu Governor Lati Lelelit, who together represent the leadership of the Maa Economic Bloc (MAAEB).
This year’s theme, “Preserving Culture, Promoting Unity and Economic Empowerment,” underscores the festival’s dual focus on safeguarding traditions while unlocking opportunities in tourism, trade, and civic engagement.
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Speaking during the opening ceremony, Governor Ole Lenku hailed the festival as a platform for cultural pride and intergenerational learning. “We are proud of our culture, it is our identity. Through this festival, we celebrate who we are and teach our young people the values and practices that define Maa heritage,” he said.
Governor Ntutu emphasized the festival’s role in linking cultural preservation with economic growth. “This is a chance to integrate our heritage with tourism, entrepreneurship, and community development,” he noted, adding that the event also provides space to reflect on challenges facing the Maa community and chart solutions.
Samburu Governor Lelelit highlighted the global appeal of Maasai culture and wildlife as twin pillars of Kenya’s tourism sector. “We invite the world to witness the vibrancy of our people and the richness of our land. This festival is a living testament to what makes Kenya unique,” he said.
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The festival, hosted this year by Kajiado County, is rotational as previous editions were held in Narok (2023) and Samburu (2024). It features a wide array of activities including traditional dances, music, beadwork exhibitions, livestock showcases, cultural foods, and storytelling sessions. Delegations from Kenya and northern Tanzania are participating, reinforcing the cross-border unity of Maa-speaking communities.
The festival also hosts forums on education, modulated pastoralism, civic education, and youth empowerment, making it a space for both celebration and strategic dialogue.
President William Ruto is expected to grace the event before its conclusion on Saturday.
By Masaki Enock
