Migori County is preparing to host the 5th Edition of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival and Migori Cultural Extravaganza, a major celebration of Luo heritage scheduled for December 14 to 16, 2025.
The annual event, which highlights the cultural richness of the Luo nation while promoting unity and economic growth, is expected to draw thousands of visitors, cultural groups and dignitaries.
Speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi, Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko said the county is finalising preparations to deliver what he described as an “extraordinary cultural showcase.”
He said the festival remains an important platform for celebrating the diversity that defines Migori.
"The basis of doing a cultural extravaganza is to celebrate the diversity because Migori is a cosmopolitan county that is constituted by diverse populations," Ayacko said.
He added that the event will continue reinforcing cultural pride and strengthening social cohesion across different communities living in the region.
This year’s theme, “Honoring Heritage, Uniting Generations,” reflects the festival’s intention to blend traditional values with modern creativity.
The programme will feature cultural performances, exhibitions, entrepreneurship displays and plenary discussions that explore how culture can support trade, creative industries and youth empowerment.
This edition will carry a special emotional significance. It is the first time the festival will be held without its patron, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died on October 15 while receiving treatment in India.
Ayacko said Raila played a central role in elevating the stature of the event and the cultural identity of the Luo nation.
"This is the first time we are hosting the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in his absence. He has been the patron of this festival and of the Luo nation. This 5th edition will be a significant one because individuals are temporary and transient, we are on earth for a very short period but the nation continues," he said.
Ayacko added that the festival will offer a moment to reflect on Raila’s contributions.
"It is going to give the Luo nation an immense opportunity to remember the contribution that the late patron Raila Odinga made nationally and internationally. It will inspire the young and the elderly and give us an opportunity to appreciate some of the fine qualities that Raila exhibited."
The governor also noted that the festival provides a public platform for other communities in Migori that have not traditionally showcased their culture. These include the Kuria, Luhya, Kisii and Somali communities.
Activities lined up include cultural performances, a First Lady’s Gala Night, plenary discussions on culture and commerce, and a boat race on Migori’s scenic water bodies.
President William Ruto and several regional leaders are expected to grace the event alongside cultural icons, innovators and development partners.
“Through the Piny Luo Festival, we are not only preserving culture but also opening up Migori as a vibrant destination for investment and tourism,” Ayacko said.
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