By S, KNA
The annual Mijikenda Chenda Chenda cultural festival received a boost after upcountry communities residing in Kilifi County joined indigenous communities in showcasing their traditions during celebrations held at the Pwani University grounds.
Traditionally dominated by the nine Mijikenda sub-tribes of Giriama, Chonyi, Kauma, Kambe, Ribe, Rabai, Duruma, Jibana, and Digo, the festival this year incorporated other communities, including the Waata, Agikuyu, Luo, Luhya, and Kamba.
Organisers said the inclusion is aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and unity, noting that many non-Mijikenda families have lived in Kilifi for decades.
The colourful event was graced by Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, and Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, alongside hundreds of residents.
Speaking during the festival, PS Jacobs commended the Mijikenda community for their unity and pledged government support towards boosting cultural and creative initiatives.
“Unity is strength, and I urge you to continue with this spirit of bringing communities together. The government will keep supporting such initiatives in its ambition to foster peace and harmony,” he said.
Governor Mung’aro cautioned leaders against divisive politics, saying unity was key to development. He further reiterated his commitment to continue with ongoing development programmes and ensure completion of projects initiated by his predecessor and current Senate Speaker Amason Kingi.
“It is high time that we leaders shunned divisive politics and join hands in developing our county,” he said.
Residents also welcomed the inclusivity, with Giriama youth Hamisi Matano noting that most young people in Kilifi had grown up alongside peers from other ethnic groups.
“As Gen Zees, we have grown up together with other communities who know Kilifi as their only home. Their inclusion makes the festival truly representative of the county’s diversity,” said Matano.
Lucy Wamboi from the Kikuyu community expressed gratitude to the county government, noting that most upcountry families had lived in Kilifi for more than 30 years.
“We are proud to be part of Kilifi, and we thank the leadership for enabling us to share our cultures for peaceful coexistence,” she said.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Margaret Nzioka from the Kamba community, who lauded the initiative for enhancing peace and harmony in the county.