Siaya County will this year join the rest of the world in celebrating World Tourism Week by hosting a week-long cultural and investment festival in Bondo Sub-County.
The event, which will run in tandem with global celebrations, is designed to showcase Siaya’s rich cultural heritage, sports talent, and artistic creativity while positioning the county as a prime destination for tourism and investment.
Chief Officer for Tourism, Ms. Judith Oyugi, said the festival was not merely ceremonial but part of a strategic plan to harness tourism as a driver of economic transformation.
“Tourism is one of our pillars that we are deliberately aligning with the county’s economic agenda. By promoting the culture of the Luo people alongside sports and the creative arts, we hope to attract investors and create sustainable opportunities for our people,” Ms. Oyugi explained.
The Bondo celebrations will feature traditional Luo music, dance, cuisine, and crafts, alongside sporting competitions, art exhibitions, and business showcases. Local entrepreneurs and innovators will also be given a platform to network with investors and market their products.
Siaya’s tourism potential remains largely untapped despite its unique attractions, including Got Ramogi Hills, Lake Victoria’s islands, sacred shrines, and the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Mausoleum. Officials say that World Tourism Week offers the perfect launchpad to brand the county as the cultural heartbeat of the Lake Region.
Governor James Orengo’s administration has prioritized tourism as a growth sector, citing its potential to create jobs, diversify incomes, and complement agriculture and fisheries.
Hospitality players have welcomed the initiative, noting that increased visitor traffic during the festival could boost business in accommodation, transport, and entertainment sectors.
If successful, Siaya’s Tourism Week could be institutionalized as an annual calendar event, firmly placing the county on the global tourism map.
“Tourism is about experiences. In Siaya, we want visitors to live the Luo culture, enjoy our heritage, and explore new investment opportunities,” Ms. Oyugi added.
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