The recognition took place on Wednesday during the 5th edition of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival, an event that celebrates Luo traditions, history, and identity.
The President was crowned alongside Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga, in a ceremony that drew political leaders, elders, cultural enthusiasts, and residents from across the region. The event highlighted the growing role of culture in promoting unity, heritage preservation, and tourism.
Speaking after receiving the honour, President Ruto said Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage should be protected and used as a foundation for national unity rather than division.
The President was crowned alongside Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Odinga, in a ceremony that drew political leaders, elders, cultural enthusiasts, and residents from across the region. The event highlighted the growing role of culture in promoting unity, heritage preservation, and tourism.
Speaking after receiving the honour, President Ruto said Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage should be protected and used as a foundation for national unity rather than division.
He noted that cultural sites such as Thimlich Ohinga play a key role in preserving history and educating future generations.
“Our culture is what binds us together as a people,” Ruto said. “When we preserve our heritage, we strengthen unity, promote understanding, and build a nation that respects diversity.”
The President reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the development of a fully equipped cultural centre at the Thimlich Ohinga Historic Site.
“Our culture is what binds us together as a people,” Ruto said. “When we preserve our heritage, we strengthen unity, promote understanding, and build a nation that respects diversity.”
The President reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the development of a fully equipped cultural centre at the Thimlich Ohinga Historic Site.
He said the project would help preserve Luo history, boost tourism in the region, and create opportunities for local communities.
Ruto also used the platform to speak about national integration, calling on Kenyans to move away from politics driven by tribal divisions.
Ruto also used the platform to speak about national integration, calling on Kenyans to move away from politics driven by tribal divisions.
He said the government remains focused on development priorities that benefit all citizens regardless of ethnicity or political affiliation.
“We must transform our politics into an agenda-based system,” he said.
“We must transform our politics into an agenda-based system,” he said.
“Kenya’s future lies in unity, mutual respect, and shared national goals, not hatred or tribalism.”
Oburu Odinga, who was also crowned during the ceremony, expressed gratitude for the recognition and said the honour came with responsibility.
Oburu Odinga, who was also crowned during the ceremony, expressed gratitude for the recognition and said the honour came with responsibility.
He described the moment as significant for the Luo community and pledged to serve with integrity and humility.
“Today is a great honour for me and for our community,” Oburu said.
“Today is a great honour for me and for our community,” Oburu said.
“I accept this role with a commitment to unity, service, and purpose as we work together to strengthen our cultural identity.”
Beyond cultural matters, President Ruto touched on politics, using the occasion to urge ODM supporters to strengthen their party structures ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Beyond cultural matters, President Ruto touched on politics, using the occasion to urge ODM supporters to strengthen their party structures ahead of the 2027 General Election.
While addressing the crowd, he acknowledged the region’s strong support for ODM and encouraged the party to remain organised and united.
“I know many of you here are ODM supporters,” Ruto said. “You must ensure your party remains strong so that we can plan the future of this country together.”
The President hinted at the possibility of deeper political cooperation between his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and ODM, building on the broad-based political arrangement reached earlier in 2025. He said strong political parties are essential for stable governance and inclusive leadership.
“If ODM is strong and UDA is also strong, then we can sit together and agree on how to move this country forward,” Ruto stated, signalling openness to future collaboration.
The Piny Luo Festival continues to grow in importance as a platform for cultural expression, dialogue, and unity. This year’s event featured traditional music, dances, storytelling, and discussions on heritage preservation.
Thimlich Ohinga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains one of Kenya’s most important cultural landmarks.
“I know many of you here are ODM supporters,” Ruto said. “You must ensure your party remains strong so that we can plan the future of this country together.”
The President hinted at the possibility of deeper political cooperation between his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and ODM, building on the broad-based political arrangement reached earlier in 2025. He said strong political parties are essential for stable governance and inclusive leadership.
“If ODM is strong and UDA is also strong, then we can sit together and agree on how to move this country forward,” Ruto stated, signalling openness to future collaboration.
The Piny Luo Festival continues to grow in importance as a platform for cultural expression, dialogue, and unity. This year’s event featured traditional music, dances, storytelling, and discussions on heritage preservation.
Thimlich Ohinga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains one of Kenya’s most important cultural landmarks.
Leaders and elders attending the festival called for increased investment in the site to protect it and unlock its full tourism potential.
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