Thousands converged for the Bunyala cultural festivals that was held at Marenga Beach, an event that was characterized by a huge political attendance from both Azimio and Kenya Kwanza.
The colourful event saw elders dressed in traditional attire sing traditional songs, and tunes that brought back sweet memories to the older generation as they taught the young ones about Bunyala culture and norms.
There were a number of entertainments from boat racing, swimming, and traditional dancers and thereafter soccer clash, to the advantage of the huge crowd at the event which attracted both local and international tourists.
The event was graced by Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba , Azimio Leader Raila Odinga, Busia County Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma and the Principal Secretary for State Department for Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSMEs) Susan Mang’eni, Vihiga Senator Osotsi, Ugunja MP and Minority leader in the National Assembly Opiyo Wandayi, Nambale MP Godfrey Mulanya, Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo among other leaders.
Namwamba challenged leaders from Busia County to forge together as a team to help revive the ailing economy of the county. “I urge all leaders in Busia to work together to better the lives of our people,” he noted.
Namwamba vow to ensure the swimming champions of the cultural event are incorporated into the 2024 Olympics team.
“We will make boat racing an international event both as a tourism attraction as well as sporting activity. I will ensure the swimming competition winner Victoria is part of the Olympic team,” he added.
The Governor promised to continue promoting cultural events and said he will seek to merge Abanyala and Samia Cultural events together.
“I want to congratulate the participants and Victorine Okumu, a girl who performed well among men in the category of swimming. Let others emulate her, we shall promote culture at all costs, this is just the beginning,” noted Otuoma.
Mang’eni, praised the residents for the magnificent performance and promised to always support the residents by giving funds to various groups especially after being trained on how to handle the loans received in the groups.
“I urge residents of Busia to utilize various funds and grants available from the government for economic development. Let us not politicize everything,” noted Mangeni.
Her sentiments were echoed by Budalangi MP Wanjala , who called on the government to expand tourism for regional development.
“The government must open Lake Victoria Belt as a tourist centre. The culture around the lake, if molded well, can generate billions for this country through sports and tourism,” noted Wanjala.
The winners in the boat racing men’s category were Songa Mbele and Maendeleo in the women’s category.
Victorine Okumu emerged the winner in the swimming category for both men and women.
By Absalom Namwalo
