Last week, the vibrant Turkana community hosted the 9th edition of their Cultural Festival, known as Tobong’u Lore, in Lodwar, northern Kenya. Running from December 15 to 18, this four-day celebration showcased the rich traditions, music, and creativity of the Turkana people.
What Is Tobong’u Lore?
Tobong’u Lore means “welcome back home” in the Turkana language. It’s more than a festival—it’s a reunion for families, artists, and visitors to experience:
- 💃 Electrifying dance and music performances, from traditional drums to modern beats
- 🖼️ A bustling crafts market, featuring handmade jewellery, beadwork, and leather goods
- 🎤 Cultural dialogues on youth empowerment, climate resilience, and community development
- 📱 A digital storytelling booth where you could dive into VR tours of Turkana’s landscapes
- 🌱 Workshops on sustainable grazing and water management—key topics in arid regions
Highlights from December 15–18
The festival wasn’t just about tradition—it blended heritage with innovation. You could catch a live coding demo for sustainable farming apps, jam to fusion tunes, or join a panel on promoting indigenous languages through social media. It was a true mash-up of past and future!
Why It Matters to Young Global Explorers
Whether you’re from Jakarta, Bangalore, or Manila, Tobong’u Lore offers a fresh perspective on cultural pride and community-driven innovation. It reminds us that preserving traditions can go hand-in-hand with embracing new tech and ideas. 🌍✨
Feeling inspired? Share your own cultural festivals and tag us to keep the global conversation going!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
