Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during a past cultural festival// Photo Courtesy
The Luo Council of Elders, under the guidance of Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, has officially declared the return of the esteemed Piny Luo Cultural Festival, which will occur from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025, at the historic Migwena Grounds in Siaya County.
During a press conference held at Ofafa Hall in Kisumu, the elders revealed that this year’s festival, themed “Celebrating our roots, culture, and heritage – Dhialo Nonro Mar Luo Kitwa Gi Timbewa,” aims to unite the Luo community from around the globe for a grand celebration of their traditions and history.
The annual Piny Luo Festival acts as a distinctive cultural gathering to honor Luo identity, strengthen connections across generations, and showcase the community’s rich traditions and values. Activities will feature traditional music, dance, art, and storytelling, all dedicated to celebrating the beauty of the Luo way of life.
“This festival represents the pride, resilience, and vibrancy of the Luo people,” remarked Jotham Ajiki, who spoke on behalf of the elders. “Through music, dance, art, and storytelling, we will celebrate our heritage and acknowledge the beauty of our culture.”
This year’s festival will see the participation of all four governors from Luo Nyanza—representing Migori, Homa Bay, Kisumu, and Siaya—highlighting the unity and leadership that the council aims to promote throughout the region. Raila Odinga, the patron of the Luo Council of Elders and a long-time cultural and political advocate for the Luo people, will preside over the event, emphasizing its importance and reinforcing the community’s collective vision for unity and cultural pride.
“We invite all members of the Luo community and friends from across Kenya and beyond to join us in Migwena for this momentous occasion. Let us come together to rekindle our pride in our culture and pass down the spirit of Luo resilience to future generations ” elders stated.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili echoed these sentiments, stressing that the festival, now in its fourth year, will celebrate the heritage of the Luo people along with their contributions in sports, politics, and the arts.
A key highlight of the final day will be the grand inauguration of the Siaya Stadium, featuring a football match between Gor Mahia of Kenya and Yanga of Tanzania, as well as a friendly contest between the National Assembly team, led by Hon. Otiende Amollo, and a combined team from Siaya.
The Piny Luo Festival is set to be a lively celebration of Luo culture, unity, and heritage, paving the way for a meaningful start to the New Year for the community.
