Festive cheer lit up Kisumu City on Christmas Eve after Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o presided over the lighting of the Christmas tree at the KCB roundabout at 10pm, drawing hundreds of residents into the city centre for the annual celebration.
The governor was accompanied by Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga and several county executives, even as families, youngsters and traders gathered to usher in the holiday season amid music, fireworks and colourful decorations that transformed the busy roundabout into a focal point of celebration.
Addressing the crowd, Prof. Nyong’o wished residents a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, urging them to embrace unity and goodwill.
“We wish the whole nation and the people of Kisumu County a very Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year, with good tidings in all sectors of society,” he said, noting that the calm weather and vibrant turnout reflected the optimism of the season.
The governor observed that Christmas was a time for families to reunite, pointing out that many Kenyans working in cities and neighbouring countries traditionally travel home during the festive period.
“This is the time when families get together. People who have been away working in places like Nairobi, Tanzania and Uganda come back home to meet their families,” he said, adding that the rush had made travel between Nairobi and Kisumu particularly busy.
He also highlighted the economic boost brought about by the holiday season, saying the influx of visitors and heightened activity in entertainment spots, restaurants and recreational areas was good for the local economy.
Prof Nyong’o cited popular leisure destinations and eateries in the city that had recorded increased traffic as residents and visitors celebrated Christmas in Kisumu.
The event, he added, was part of efforts to enhance Kisumu’s status as a vibrant and welcoming city.
As the lights came on and fireworks illuminated the night sky, residents lingered around the decorated tree taking photos and celebrating, marking the official start of Christmas festivities in the lakeside city.
The celebration is expected to continue through the weekend with two major events planned for Friday and Saturday.
On Friday, celebrated Luo musician Coster Ojwang and a host of other artists will stage a family show at Tom Mboya Labour College, which will be followed by a music concert dubbed the Fisherman Experience on Saturday at the same venue. Still on Saturday, the city will host the first-ever drift show in the lakeside.
The event organised by the city management and Al Hisnain Motors is expected to attract thousands of motor lovers from other parts of the country.
By Chris Mahandara
