Culture

The rich heritage of the Kamba community came alive on Friday as residents of Kisau Division in Mbooni gathered at the Drylands Natural Resource Centre (DNRC) to celebrate traditional foods, herbal medicine, music and indigenous knowledge.

The cultural event attracted wide participation from local residents and visitors, reaffirming the importance of preserving and promoting Kamba traditions.

A key highlight of the day was the handover of a 100-seater tent by the County Government to DNRC to support cultural exhibitions and community events.

Speaking during the occasion, DNRC proprietor Nicholas Syano called on communities to embrace indigenous products and safeguard traditional knowledge as a valuable cultural and economic resource.

In line with Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr.’s development agenda, the County Government has set aside funds in the 2026/27 financial year to support the preservation and commercialization of Kamba indigenous knowledge and products.

The event was attended by Director Mutua Mulonzya of Culture, Music and the Arts directorate.

The Government of Makueni County on Thursday partnered with the Kenya Copyright Board and the Permanent Presidential Music Commission to train local artists on copyright protection, royalty collection and opportunities in the creative industry.

The workshop brought together artists from across the county and focused on helping them understand intellectual property rights and ways of earning from their creative work.

Speaking during the forum, Ag. CECM for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Tourism and Culture Nicholas Nzioka said the county is committed to supporting local talent through programs that create growth and employment opportunities.

Deputy Director Sharon Wata encouraged artists to register their music and content to protect their work and access royalties.

The event was also attended by Trade, Marketing, Industry, Tourism and Culture Chief Officer Jossylin Mutua and other county officials.

On Friday, the County Culture Directorate joined the world in celebrating International Mother Language Day at the Makueni University College, a constituent college of SEKU, Wote Campus, in a lively event that blended culture, creativity and technology.

The celebrations that were sparked by a call to unity through language, followed by colourful creative performances by students, with music, spoken word poetry, traditional dances, storytelling and comedy from across the country bringing the campus alive, reflecting Kenya’s rich linguistic diversity.

Speaking during the event, Trade, Marketing, Industry, Tourism and Culture Ag. CECM Nicholas Nzioka emphasized that revitalizing indigenous languages is key to cultural identity, education and inclusive development, urging youth to use digital platforms to preserve their mother tongues.

The UNESCO-endorsed International Mother Language Day promotes the celebration of indigenous languages, strengthens mother-tongue education, and encourages the use of digital platforms to preserve linguistic diversity.

Representing College Principal, Prof. Josephat Kimatu highlighted the university’s role in nurturing creativity, cultural pride and innovation among youth.

The event was attended by Chief Officer Dr. Jossylyn Nzilani, Culture, Music and the Arts Director Mutua Mulonzya, and other county officials, underscoring Makueni’s commitment to protecting linguistic heritage.

The annual Kenya Music and Cultural Festival closed its curtains on Monday with a colourful gala performance, marking the end of a vibrant seven-day celebration of creativity.

Attended by Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism Chief Officer Dr Josyllyn Nzilani and the County Cultural Officers, the festival brought together cultural groups, choirs, soloists, film producers and exhibitors from across the country—each weaving their story into the national tapestry of art.

Makueni County stood tall, delivering stellar performances across multiple categories.

The Makueni County Choir scooped top positions in Class 442B with “How Beautiful Are Thy Feet”, Class 443D with an adaptation and arrangement, Class 441B, Class 441A and Class 442A.

In solo categories, Ruth Wambua popularly known as ‘Mama Mercy’ topped Class 105 for her captivating chant “Namukawa ni Aka” with Kee Botanical Gardens also securing position one in traditional medicine exhibition—its fourth consecutive win.

Other notable achievements included second positions for Justus Paul (Class 1312C), the County Informercial team (Class 301B), and the choir’s “All We Like Sheep.”

This year’s theme, “Threads of Culture, Weaves of Opportunity,” highlights how arts create not just beauty, but pathways for economic growth, talent development and cultural pride.

Epic moments from Eldoret as the Makueni County Choir, joined by Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism Chief Officer Dr. Josyllyn Nzilani graces the Kenya Music and Cultural Festival at Moi Girls Secondary School.

Earlier today, the Makueni County Choir stepped on stage with vibrant a cappella flair, delivering a rhythmic and soulful rendition of “Dot Com Lady” under Class 451, Zilizopendwa Kenyan.

Their voices danced in harmony—smooth, sweet, and stirring—earning warm applause at the Kenya Music and Cultural Festival taking place at Moi Girls Secondary School in Eldoret.

A performance where rhythm met nostalgia, and Makueni’s musical spirit shone bright.

The Makueni County Choir has been officially flagged off to represent the county at the annual Kenya Music and Cultural Festival in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu.

Entering the competition as the reigning overall choir champions, the choir will showcase their talent in set piece, own composition, mixed voices, zilizopendwa, adaptation arrangements, gospel pieces, and more.

During the prayer-filled flag-off ceremony, Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture and Tourism Chief Officer, Dr. Jossylyn Nzilani reaffirmed the county’s dedication to nurturing talent.

She noted that such platforms not only inspire creativity but also position Makueni’s artists for commercial growth and national recognition.

With confidence and artistry, the team carries the pride of Makueni to Eldoret—ready to defend their crown.

Makueni KMTC, Wote Campus came alive on friday, as medical students celebrated the third annual Cultural Day under the theme “Beyond Borders; One Medicine, Many Cultures.”

The theme highlights how medicine, though practiced globally, is enriched by diverse cultural backgrounds and traditions.

The vibrant event showcased colorful cultural attire, traditional music and even creative rap performances. Students also thrilled the crowd with innovative outfits inspired by their medical training and blending creativity with their profession.

The Campus Principal Mary Kioko who was joined by Culture Director Mutua Mulonzya applauded the event’s growing impact, describing it as a powerful celebration of diversity that continues to unite students through culture and creativity.

Jointly organized by the college and the Makueni County Department of Culture, the event is steadily gaining traction—with corporate sponsors now eyeing future partnerships to support this unique fusion of health and heritage.