BUSIA, Kenya— Preparations for the fourth coronation anniversary of Iteso cultural leader Papa Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot Etomeileng III have entered the final stages, with thousands of visitors and traditional leaders expected in Busia County for a three-day cultural celebration.

The festivities will run from October 29 to 31, 2026, culminating in the anniversary celebrations at Achunet Malaba Stadium in Teso North. Organisers anticipate more than 50,000 visitors, alongside over 80 kings and queens from different parts of Africa, including representatives of prominent traditional kingdoms.

President William Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart, Yoweri Museveni, are expected to attend the closing ceremony, underscoring the cultural and historical ties between the Iteso communities in Kenya and Uganda. The anniversary was initially scheduled for October 22–24 but was postponed by one week following a request by President Ruto to enable him to attend.

“We are preparing for the 4th anniversary celebrations of Papa Emorimor, which will take place from October 29 to 31, 2026, at Achunet Malaba Stadium.

This year’s theme is ‘Unity of Purpose, Heritage, Culture and Economic development.' We expect thousands of visitors, including the head of state kenya Dr. William Samoei Ruto , head of state Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and cultural leaders from Kenya, Uganda, and other parts of Africa.” ~ Crispinus Charles Barasa Obukui [ Chairman ]

The programme will feature the Emorimor Cup football finals, a business and investment symposium, traditional performances, and cultural exhibitions. The celebrations are expected to bring together Ateker communities, including the Iteso, Turkana, Karamojong, Langi, and Toposa, to promote cultural preservation, peace, unity and regional integration.

The business symposium is expected to provide a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and economic cooperation across the region. With Busia serving as a key gateway between Kenya and Uganda, the gathering is also expected to highlight the potential of cultural tourism and cross-border partnerships in supporting local businesses.

“The celebrations will also create opportunities for local traders and entrepreneurs through cultural exhibitions and a business symposium.

We hope the event will attract investment, promote cross-border trade, and boost tourism, benefiting businesses and residents of Busia County.” CPA Dismas Esamai

Beyond the festivities, the anniversary will offer an opportunity for younger generations to learn about Iteso customs, traditions, and history. Cultural leaders are expected to use the occasion to reinforce the role of traditional institutions in promoting social cohesion, preserving indigenous knowledge, and encouraging peaceful coexistence among communities.

The celebrations are also expected to strengthen ties between Iteso communities living on both sides of the Kenya-Uganda border, reaffirming their shared heritage and identity. Organisers hope the gathering will leave a lasting legacy by encouraging unity among Ateker communities and advancing collaboration in education, environmental conservation, and regional development.

“These celebrations provide an opportunity for the Iteso and other Ateker communities to preserve their culture, promote peace and strengthen unity.

We want to pass our traditions to younger generations while building stronger relationships among communities across Kenya and Uganda.”