A vibrant six-day cultural extravaganza, the “Maa Cultural Tourism Festival,” officially commenced today at the iconic Amboseli National Park in Kajiado South Constituency. The festival, aimed at celebrating and showcasing the rich heritage of the Maasai community, is poised to attract over 20,000 visitors eager to immerse themselves in culture, wildlife, and local traditions.
The launch of the festival was met with palpable excitement, as the county government announced on its website, “Maa Cultural Festival Roadshow has just kicked off at Kajiado South. We are celebrating the beauty of our culture with pride and rhythm.” The opening day featured performances by guest artists Everlyn Moipai and Lakili, both hailing from Kajiado South, setting a celebratory tone for the week-long event.
Beyond the cultural celebrations, this year’s festival holds significant historical importance. It will serve as the backdrop for the official handover of the management of Amboseli National Park from the national government to the Kajiado County government. Officials from both governmental tiers have already formalized a deed outlining a “phased handover of management, finances, and staff, with full county control expected by 2029.” This marks a pivotal moment for regional governance and conservation efforts.
Governor Joseph Ole Lenku’s administration expressed enthusiasm for the anticipated turnout, highlighting the festival’s role in promoting local heritage. Attendees can look forward to a rich program of events, including performances by high-profile Maa artists and iconic cultural activities such as the traditional Maasai high-jumping dance, famously known as Adumu.
The festival is expected to culminate in a high-profile visit on November 8, 2025, a day before its close, with President William Ruto and Governor Ole Lenku anticipated to grace the event, underscoring the national significance of both the cultural celebration and the park’s management transition.