Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor H.E. Evans Kapkea has officially opened the annual County Music and Cultural Festival at Home Craft, marking the start of county-level competitions ahead of the upcoming National Music and Cultural Festivals, which Uasin Gishu will host from November 30 to December 8.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, DG Kapkea urged participants to give their best performances, expressing confidence that Uasin Gishu will shine on the national stage.

“As a county, it would not be right for people to perform before the President at the State Lodge and none of them be from Uasin Gishu,” said Kapkea. “We have the talent—now it’s time to prove it.”

He noted that the teams have what it takes to raise the county’s flag high during the national event, which will be hosted at Moi Girls’ High School, Eldoret.

“I believe you are the best. It will be up to the adjudicators to pick the best from among the best to represent us,” he added.

County Executive Committee Member for Education, Culture, Gender and Social Protection, Lucy Ng’endo, said the festival not only helps identify top performers but also promotes peace, unity, and cultural appreciation across communities. She called on adjudicators to maintain the highest standards of professionalism.

On her part, Chief Officer for Education and Culture, Eunice Suter, reaffirmed the county’s support for all participating groups, both at the county and national levels.

“We’ve finished second for the past few years. This time, let’s bring the national title home,” she said.

Director of Culture, Mohamed Dakane, announced that between 25 and 30 groups will be selected to represent the county at the nationals—up from 13 groups that competed in Voi, Taita Taveta last year.

“We’re always number two, but this year we want to break that record and be number one,” said Dakane.

Last year, Uasin Gishu County won 81 trophies, finishing second overall.

DG Kapkea was accompanied by Hon. Thomas Yego, Hon. Regina Chumba, and Hon. Robert Kering, alongside County Executive for Devolution, Administration and Public Service Management, Janet Kurgat.

Also present were Deputy Directors Pius Mosbei, Rosyline Kosgei, Julius Tanui, among other county officials.