By President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was yesterday crowned a Luo elder at the Piny Luo Festival in Siaya County, Kenya. The ceremony was performed by the Ker (cultural leader) of Luo, Odungi Randa.
President Museveni was crowned alongside President William Ruto and former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The ceremony involved the presentation of traditional items, including a seat of the ruler, crown of leadership, and shield with a spear for protection.
“I thank the Luos for making me an elder in the community. I think this is an honour for the people of Uganda. What you’re doing now is showing the unfairness of these borders, and I’m very happy that you’re showing this,” President Museveni said.
He emphasized the importance of unity among East Africans, highlighting the need for a political federation to achieve prosperity and strategic security.
President Ruto praised President Museveni’s commitment to East African unity, saying, “You have demonstrated resilience… That is friendship beyond the ordinary.”
The event was attended by various Luo communities from across Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. The festival aimed to promote unity, peace, and reconciliation among the Luo people.
Later in the day, Presidents Museveni and Ruto officially opened the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya County, which hosted a friendly football match between Kenya’s Gor Mahia and Uganda’s Kitara FC. President Museveni urged East Africans to create wealth through commercial agriculture, ICT, services, and manufacturing, congratulating Gor Mahia FC on their win.
