By KNA’s John Kaleke
The Maa Culture Week brings together thousands of Maasai communities from Narok, Kajiado, Laikipia, Marsabit, Baringo, and Samburu to showcase their culture at Sekenani Gate, Maasai Mara.
The event coincides with the spectacular annual migration of wildebeest from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Maasai Mara in Kenya.
Led by three governors; Narok governor Patrick Ole Ntutu Narok, Joseph ole Lenku Kajiado, and Jonathan Leleliit Samburu, and Members of Parliament among other leaders.
Ntutu said the main focus is for the unity of the community to forge a way forward in taking its position in regional and regional matters.
The second-day programme will kick off with a royal tour guided by the president where he will witness the annual wildebeest migration as a way of welcoming international visitors to visit Kenya and witness the beautiful sceneries and diverse cultures.
Ntutu added that the cultural event is destined for the community to celebrate its cultural diversity annually but on rotation.
On his part, Lenku said that the first event is jointly done by Narok, Kajiado, and Samburu counties in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
“We will also use the occasion to educate the community on the do, and don’ts, as well as deliberate on the community position Nationally,” said Lenku.
Lenku also noted that the community is facing many challenges saying this is the time to forge a united front and discuss the matters with a view to seeking solid solutions together.
Leleliit used the opportunity to announce the second edition of the Maa cultural week which will be staged at Samburu National Park next year.
“Our culture has brought thousands of international and domestic tourists to our region, so we must protect our culture and wildlife territories in equal measures,” he said
Leleliit said it is important to bring the community’s diverse culture together and deliberate on how to conserve it for future generations and preserve it and hand it to the young people to avoid erosion and adulteration.
According to Chief Executive Officer Narok-Kajiado Economic Bloc (NAKAEB) Jackson Mbario, the four-day Maasai cultural activities and fashion being showcased during the week is also an opportunity for conservationists around the world to meet and discuss the conservation matters alongside bringing a cultural component to tourist.