Award-winning gospel musician Emmy Kosgei was one of the big name artists among who brought Kalenjin music and traditions to the national stage during the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret on Tuesday.
Kosgei delivered an energetic performance as the people of Eldoret filled the as yet unfinished stadium to mark the national holiday, with President William Ruto presiding.
First Lady Rachel Ruto, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Speaker of Senate Amason Kingi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula were among the dignitaries attending the event.
The entertainment programme showcased the musical heritage of the North Rift region, featuring traditional performances alongside gospel and contemporary music.
Some of the highlights included Pastor Joel Kimetto, who drew an enthusiastic response with his popular Kalenjin gospel hit “Uro Uro”, prompting President Ruto, the First Lady and Prime Minister Abiy to stand and dance along.
And the dancing didn’t stop there. Veteran performer Gogo Basilisa entertained the crowd with traditional songs and dance, while Marakwet Daughter performed her popular hit “Malisafi Chito”, adapting its lyrics to “Mali Safi Kenya” for the national celebration.
The entertainment also included performances by traditional group amsuch as Sengwer Dance Troupe and more.
According to the PPMC, the body responsible for planning the entertainment, the performances reflected the role of music in preserving regional identity.
Ahead of the celebrations, Kosgei said the lineup was intended to introduce Kalenjin music and traditions to a wider audience.
“Looking at the artist lineup and the people that have been told to come and sing, it is like showcasing the Kalenjin culture to the world, to Kenyans,” she said.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii welcomed visitors to the county, describing the opportunity to host the national event as an honour and a chance to showcase the region’s hospitality and heritage.
“Hosting Mashujaa Day is a great honour for Uasin Gishu. It is a moment that brings together our shared values of patriotism, unity and service to our nation,” Bii said in remarks ahead of the celebrations.
President Ruto presided over the event, which was co-hosted by Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties, bringing the national celebrations to the North Rift region for the first time.
The annual holiday honours Kenyans whose sacrifices and contributions have shaped the country’s history and development.
In his speech President Ruto hailed these national heroes saying, “We honour those who fought, the families who sustained them whose names history did not record,” he said. “We must never forget what it took to secure our freedom.”
