Migori County Commissioner Kisilu Mutua and the Migori Governor, Ochilo Ayacko, have condemned the continued acts of female genital mutilation (FGM) among Kuria community.
Speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebration held at Kadika Primary School in Suna East Sub-county, Migori, Kisilu said that as the rest of the country celebrates its rich traditions and positive cultures, the Kuria community is still practising an outmoded tradition and culture of FGM that not only harms the Kuria girls but also impoverishes the community’s ethics and morals.
Kisilu called upon the Migori residents to join the rest of the Nyanza region as the county prepares to host the first-ever Piny Luo Festival, to be held in the county, so as to witness, learn and embrace positive cultures, that can steer the social and economic activities of the Migori people to further heights of progress.
The Piny Luo Festival, which is set to kick off at Rongo University from 15th to 17th December 2025, will feature Luo music, dance, art, cuisine, and exhibitions that highlight both traditional and contemporary expressions of Luo culture.
Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko urged the young generation to embrace positive cultures and traditions to ensure they sharpen their historical roots, as well as generate income from such activities.
Ochilo also called upon the youths, especially in Kuria, to desist from being pressured to participate in retrogressive cultures including FGM, that will hinder their education paths, harm their health and expose them to negative societal vices such as early marriages and Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Governor Ochilo welcomed Kenyans and visitors to join the county during the Piny Luo Festival, which aims to unite the Luo community in preserving cultural identity, promoting unity, and showcasing the richness of Luo heritage.
“We have a lot of historical and tourist places within Migori that our visitors can come and visit, including Osiri Mines, Migingo Island and the Thimlich Ohinga-a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“My wish is that as the rest of the country comes to join and celebrate the Piny Luo Festivals, I encourage you to visit tourist sites and attractions to explore Migori County,” he noted.
By Makokha Khaoya
