The Executive Office of the President has officially confirmed the postponement of the 9th Edition of the Turkana Tourism and Cultural Festival—Tobong’u Lore 2025—to December 18, 2025, to align with the President William Ruto’s schedule.
In a letter dated 26th November 2025 and addressed to Turkana Governor Jeremiah Ekamais Lomorukai Napotikan, Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Josphat Nanok conveyed the request, stating that the adjustment was necessary to accommodate the President’s diary.
The communication, sent under the Office of the Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, serves as an official confirmation of the rescheduling of one of Kenya’s most celebrated cultural festivals, which showcases Turkana’s rich heritage, tourism potential, and traditional arts.
The letter was also copied to key government officials, including:
Dr. Raymond V. Omollo, PhD, CBS, Principal Secretary, State Department for Internal Security and National Administration
Hon. (Dr.) Katoo Ole Metito, EGH, Comptroller of State House
Mr. Reuben Maiyo, CBS, Private Secretary, Executive Office of the President
With the new date set, preparations for the festival are expected to continue as the county gears up to host thousands of visitors, cultural delegations, local communities, and national leaders for the annual celebration themed around unity, identity, and cultural pride.
Tobong’u Lore—meaning “Welcome Back Home”—remains one of the most significant cultural gatherings in northern Kenya, promoting peace, tourism, and cross-border cohesion.
Initially, the festival had been scheduled to run from Tuesday, 2nd December, to Friday, 5th December 2025.
