Ruto to lead inaugural Utamaduni Day celebrations at Bomas
By Wycliffe Nyamasege, October 9, 2023
President William Ruto will preside over the inaugural Utamaduni Day celebrations scheduled for Tuesday, October 10 at Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, the government has confirmed.
In a statement to newsrooms on Monday, Ummi Bashir, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Culture, Arts and Heritage, said similar celebrations will be held in all constituencies across the country.
The focus for this year’s celebration, the PS said, is on public engagement, street fairs, food festivals, cultural performances and cultural exhibitions, all highlighting the country’s cultural traditions.
“Utamaduni Day underscores Kenya’s commitment to celebrating diversity and unity, fostering a more inclusive future,” she said.
“The national celebrations will take place at the esteemed Bomas of Kenya, with the honourable presence of His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, President of Kenya, and other distinguished dignitaries. As we prepare to celebrate Utamaduni Day, we unite in the spirit of our diversity, recognizing that our differences are the threads that weave the tapestry of our nation. Together, we forge a path towards a more inclusive, equitable, and just Kenya.
To make the day a success, the PS encouraged Kenyans to actively participate in discussions, workshops, and cultural showcases that emphasize the country’s diverse heritage.
The public holiday formally known as Moi Day was initially renamed Huduma Day and later Utamaduni Day in 2020.
While the previous administration of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta set aside the day for national celebrations, there has been little government mobilisation in the past few years.
The previous government instead urged citizens “to recognize and celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Kenya in a manner that promotes unity, national cohesion and economic progress In the Country.”