* Any views expressed in this article are those of the author and not of Thomson Reuters Foundation.
Loiyangalani, Marsabit County, Kenya -- On the coast of Lake Turkana, a three-day festival will celebrate the diverse cultures of Northern Kenya. The 7th annual Lake Turkana Cultural Festival runs from June 13-15 in Loiyangalani, Marsabit County, Kenya. At least 12 of the region’s ethnic groups--including the El Molo, Samburu, Gabbra, Rendille, Turkana, Watta, Dasannach, Pokot and Borana--will share their histories, arts and crafts, dances and other traditions.
The BOMA Project, a Kenyan NGO and U.S. nonprofit, has joined this year as a lead sponsor.
“The festival celebrates the rich heritage of the ethnic groups who live in the drylands of Northern Kenya,” says Kathleen Colson, founder and CEO of The BOMA Project. “It’s also an opportunity to build peace, promote economic prosperity and showcase the success that we see every day as a local NGO on the ground in Marsabit District.”
In addition to highlighting to the diverse cultures of Northern Kenya, the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival is expected to attract several thousand tourists and provide a vital shot in the arm to the local economy. Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, lies within the periphery of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
“BOMA’s staff are looking forward to making connections with other stakeholders who are invested in the success of the people of Northern Kenya,” says Colson. “It is our hope this festival continues well into the future. We are proud to play a part in its growth.”
Read more about the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival at www.laketurkanaculturalfestival.com.
About The BOMA Project
The BOMA Project is a U.S-based nonprofit and registered Kenyan NGO with a proven track record, measurable results and a transformative approach to alleviating poverty, empowering women and building resiliency in the drylands of rural Africa. For more information on The BOMA Project, go to www.bomaproject.org or call 802.231.2542.
