BOMA business owners celebrate in the village of Lengina, Northern Kenya.
On the coast of Lake Turkana, a three-day festival will celebrate the diverse cultures of Northern Kenya. The 7th annual Lake Turkana Cultural Festival runs from June 13-15 in Loiyangalani, Marsabit County, Kenya. At least 12 of the region’s ethnic groups–including the El Molo, Samburu, Gabbra, Rendille, Turkana, Watta, Dasannach, Pokot and Borana–will share their histories, arts and crafts, dances and other traditions. The BOMA Project has joined this year as a lead sponsor.
“The festival celebrates the rich heritage of the ethnic groups who live in the drylands of Northern Kenya,” says Kathleen Colson, founder and CEO of The BOMA Project. “It’s also an opportunity to build peace, promote economic prosperity and showcase the success that we see every day as a local NGO on the ground in Marsabit District.”
In addition to highlighting to the diverse cultures of Northern Kenya, the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival is expected to attract several thousand tourists and provide a vital shot in the arm to the local economy. Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, lies within the periphery of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“BOMA’s staff are looking forward to making connections with other stakeholders who are invested in the success of the people of Northern Kenya,” says Colson. “It is our hope this festival continues well into the future. We are proud to play a part in its growth.”
Read more about the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival at www.laketurkanaculturalfestival.com.