By Reuben Olita -Busia
The Teso Night Festival has emerged as a key platform for promoting cultural practices, unity, and youth talent in Busia County.
Speaking during the third edition of the festival held at Amagoro Comprehensive School grounds from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday morning on Christmas Day, Principal Administrative Secretary in the Executive Office of the President Arthur Amug Osiya said the event brought together young people and helped nurture talents, some of which have already gained national recognition. It was a celebration of culture, unity, and diverse heritage of Busia County.
Osiya said Busia County’s cosmopolitan nature calls for deliberate efforts to foster unity among its diverse communities, noting that the festival achieved this by featuring more than 200 performers from various communities, including the Iteso, Abamarachi, Abasamia and Abamanyala.
He added that although culture falls under the docket of the Busia County Government and efforts have been made to promote cultural activities, there is need to strengthen the department to effectively revive and promote cultural heritage across the county.
The PAS praised performances by Ohangla, Kings Boys, Anyoun Dancers, Omwiro Indomera Dancers, Single P Kenya—known for his hit song Idwe Koduk—Kiteh Music, and several dance groups and choirs drawn from all the eight sub-counties. The Anglican Church choir also performed their popular song, Ebella.
The event brought Amagoro to a standstill as over 20,000 people turned up for vibrant celebrations. It also brought together current and former members of the Busia County Assembly distinguished leaders and dignitaries from across the county.
In attendance were 40 dance groups, 120 artists drawn from across the county, and 10 choir groups from Teso North and Teso South.
Businessmen and women reported booming business exhausting their stock, including water, soda, and chips, among others. They thanked Osiya and Kiteh Ekirapa for bringing the festivals to Amagoro.
Talented artists brilliantly showcased their gifts, beautifully reflecting the cultural diversity that defines Busia county.
Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Katakwa Diocese Bishop John Okude emphasized the importance of upholding good morals, unity and cultural values, particularly among the youth.
He thanked the organizers and PAS Osiya for safeguarding Iteso culture, warning that neglect of cultural practices has contributed to moral decay and social challenges in society.
Bishop Okude urged communities to maintain peace, respect the law, and encouraged young people to respect women and the elderly, noting that such values promote harmony and attract blessings.
He further cautioned against tribalism and inequitable distribution of resources, saying these undermine unity and called for a paradigm shift to reverse the trend.
Teso North Deputy County Commissioner Solomon Kitai assured residents that insecurity in the area had reduced significantly, assuring them of a peaceful Christmas and New Year festive season.
Leaders present included Angurai North Ward MCA Isaac Wamalwa, ACK Mothers’ Union President Grace Okude, St Thomas Amagoro Archdeacon Isabella Inyele Imoh, Commissioners Geoffrey Omoding and Wafula, and Director at the Executive Office of the President Charles Ramaina, among others.
