Auditions have commenced for the upcoming Fish Fiesta celebrations in Kisumu County, with organizers aiming to boost tourism, stimulate economic activity, and facilitate cultural exchange.
Scheduled across all eight sub-counties, the auditions have attracted participants in various competitions such as boat racing, bodybuilding, traditional wrestling, beauty contests (Mr. and Miss Tourism), and indigenous arts.
According to Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili, auditions kick off at Nyang’oma Hall in Muhoroni County, setting the stage for the main event slated for April 25-27 at the Jomo Kenyatta Sports Grounds.
He expressed enthusiasm for the talent showcase and the opportunity to highlight the rich Luo cultural heritage.
The auditions will feature contestants vying for titles including Mr. and Miss Tourism, Mr. and Miss Flex, Mr. and Miss Strong, alongside competitions in traditional Luo wrestling and indigenous arts.
Dr. Owili emphasized the significance of the Fish Fiesta as Kisumu County’s premier tourism event, showcasing the region as a dynamic fishing tourism destination while providing a platform for stakeholders and visitors to explore opportunities within the sector.
The festival’s theme, ‘Flavours of the Lake: Fishing Tourism as an Opportunity for Sustainable Development,’ underscores the county government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the blue economy to enhance community livelihoods.
“We aim to underscore the importance of our fisheries industry, advocate for responsible fishing practices, and tap into the unexplored potential of fishing tourism,” Dr. Owili remarked.
He called upon government agencies, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and stakeholders to collaborate in making the event a success, emphasizing the collective effort needed to promote tourism, generate employment, and ensure the sustainable management of natural resources.
“In unity, we can leverage the unique offerings of the Lake, spur tourism, create job opportunities, and safeguard the long-term viability of our natural endowments,” he concluded.
