The 96th Edition of Kenya Music and Cultural Festivals was on Saturday officially opened.

Principal Secretary in the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage Ummi Bashir presided over the opening ceremony in Wote, Makueni County.

Uasin Gishu is among counties with a representation in various categories.

According to PS Ummi, the festivals have come at a time there is need to enhance national unity and cohesion – issues that can be properly advanced for through culture.

This Festivals bring together all communities; showcasing our diversity as we’re nothing without our culture,” the PS said adding that she was impressed with the fact that the elderly were teaching the young generations their culture.

Similar sentiments were shared by host Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior.

The County Boss in his address noted that with participants being a blend of the young and old – it was clear that someone was taking responsibility of passing cultural practises to the young.

We need to find a way of encouraging such cultural and traditional events so that we remain united,” the Governor said.

Mohamed Haji, the Director Culture in Uasin Gishu says the county sponsored six teams to the national festivals with Moi University staff and University of Eldoret also part of the team.

“As much as we’re here to compete, we are also here to preach cohesion and National identity,” Haji said.

Uasin Gishu was among the best performing counties in the 2022 festivals. The county is hoping for the best this year.