Unfulfilled Promises Trail Ruto Ahead of 2025 Tobong’ulore Festival

Nearly a year after President William Ruto made a raft of pledges during the 2024 Tobong’ulore Cultural Festival in Turkana, none of the commitments has been implemented, raising questions as he is again expected to attend the 2025 edition.

During the 2024 event, the President announced several projects, including the construction of a world-class museum and science park at Namorutunga, Sh49 million to support Tobong’ulore functions, Sh360 million for a facelift of Turkana University, Sh900 million for the Turkwel–Lodwar power transmission line, a 50-hectare irrigation farm along the Turkana–West Pokot border, and efforts to harmonize conflicts among fishermen in Lake Turkana. He also promised to fast-track the chartering of Turkana University.

However, a year on, residents and local leaders say there is no visible progress on any of the projects. No ground has been broken, no funds disbursed publicly, and no official timelines issued. The Turkana University charter has also not been delivered, despite repeated assurances.

Community members say expectations were high after the 2024 pledges, but optimism has since turned into frustration. Many now view the promises as symbolic announcements rather than actionable commitments.

As preparations begin for the 2025 Tobong’ulore Cultural Festival, the spotlight is back on the President’s earlier assurances. Residents are calling for accountability, clear timelines, and tangible action, warning that repeated promises without delivery risk eroding public trust.

With President Ruto expected to return to the festival this year, the key question remains whether his visit will finally bring implementation—or another list of unfulfilled pledges.