Rusinga (Cultural) Festival

The Rusinga Cultural Festival, typically held annually in December on Rusinga Island, Kenya, is a celebration of the Suba people and their rich cultural heritage. Organized by the Rusinga Cultural Festival Organization, the festival aims to preserve and promote the Suba language, traditions, and customs, which are under threat of assimilation due to intermarriage with the Luo community, whose language and culture are dominant in the region.

The festival features a wide range of activities including traditional music and dance performances, showcasing of Suba cuisine, traditional craft displays, storytelling, boat racing on Lake Victoria, and educational exhibitions on Suba history and culture. It serves as a platform for dialogue and exchange among members of the Suba community, as well as with visitors from other parts of Kenya and the world.

Beyond cultural preservation, the festival also seeks to promote economic development and tourism on Rusinga Island. It provides opportunities for local artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, contributing to the island's economy. The festival also attracts tourists, boosting the local tourism industry.

Efforts are made each year to improve the organization and programming of the Rusinga Cultural Festival, with organizers seeking to involve more members of the community and expand the festival's reach. The festival is considered an important event for the Suba community and a significant contributor to the preservation of cultural diversity in Kenya.