The 12th Edition of the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA) Games burst into life in Siaya County with colour, conviction, and a strong message of unity — and at the centre of it all stood this year’s Patron, Governor James Orengo, welcoming the nation to what he proudly declared “the land of great potential.”
The opening ceremony was a vibrant blend of culture, sportsmanship and political symbolism, with leaders calling for deeper integration of arts, sports and county identity in Kenya’s devolution story.
Standing before thousands of excited participants and spectators, Senior Counsel James Orengo set the tone with a heartfelt welcome.
“I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to KICOSCA for choosing Siaya as this year’s venue. Siaya will be a little bit richer from this array of cultural events,” he said.
He urged guests to enjoy Siaya’s legendary hospitality, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage — from Lake Kanyaboli and River Yala to the Yala Swamp ecosystem and the vast beauty of Lake Victoria.
Orengo reminded delegates that while they may carry different county colours, they remain united under one flag.
“Even though we come from different counties, we remain one as a country,” he affirmed.
The ceremony carried a solemn but uplifting tribute to the late Right Honourable Raila Amolo Odinga, honoured as one of Kenya’s greatest sons.
“We will continue to honour and celebrate the Right Honourable Raila Odinga… Let’s make the KICOSCA Games a befitting one for our fallen hero,” Orengo said.
Leaders praised Raila’s lifelong commitment to democracy, revolutionizing Kenya’s political space, and championing devolution as a tool for empowering counties.
Outgoing Patron and Kakamega Governor Fernandez Baraza challenged teams to replicate and surpass last year’s performance at the East African Games.
He noted that 2024’s participation elevated Kenya’s stature regionally, bringing pride and prominence to the nation.
“Work hard so that East Africa can see tangible results again,” he urged.
Council of Governors Chair Governor Benjamin Kachapin delivered a firm call to action — embed cultural development into county planning.
“County colours carry our values: inclusion, dignity, and merit,” Kachapin stressed.
He noted that KICOSCA isn’t just an event — it is a blueprint that informs county-level decisions and prepares teams for regional and continental engagements.
“These games also prepare us for regional engagement. Performance and every decision informs our county,” he added.
Kachapin also joined the chorus celebrating Raila Odinga’s role in strengthening devolution.
With the theme “Celebrating Sports Through Culture: Fostering Shared Aspirations and Forging Lasting Cooperation for Our Counties,” Siaya aims to use the games as a powerful display of unity and talent.
From cultural dancers to spirited county delegations marching proudly with their flags, Siaya showcased a colourful mosaic of Kenya’s diversity.
Orengo reiterated that the hosting of KICOSCA marks a new milestone for Siaya — socially, culturally, and economically.
He highlighted the county’s famed cuisine, especially its fish prepared with traditional herbs, inviting visitors to indulge fully in the Siaya experience.
The 12th KICOSCA edition is expected to inject fresh energy into the county, boost local tourism, and deepen grassroots cultural exchange.
With Orengo’s leadership at the helm, Siaya is positioning itself not just as a host, but as a rising cultural powerhouse in Kenya’s devolved landscape.
As the games begin, one message rings clear across the lakeside county:
Siaya is open, ready, and proud — and under Orengo’s stewardship, its star has never shone brighter.
Leave a Reply