President William Ruto is expected in Bungoma on Friday, August 14, 2026, where he will preside over the State Music Gala marking the climax of the 98th Kenya National Music Festival hosted at Kibabii University.
During the visit, Ruto is also expected to use his visit to Bungoma to launch the tarmacking of the road connecting Bukembe and Nzoia Sugar Factory, a key project expected to improve transport and connectivity in the area.
The project is anticipated to ease the movement of agricultural produce, particularly sugarcane, while improving access to markets and supporting economic activity around Nzoia Sugar Company and surrounding communities.
Music festival puts Bungoma on national map
Ruto’s visit comes as Bungoma concludes a week-long national cultural event that has brought together thousands of learners, teachers, adjudicators and other participants from across the country. Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka has confirmed the President’s attendance at the closing event.
The festival, held under the theme “Enhancing the Creative Economy Through Artistic Expression for Sustainable Development,” has showcased music and cultural performances from schools and institutions across Kenya.
The event has also provided a major economic boost to Bungoma, with hotels, restaurants, transport operators and traders benefiting from the large number of visitors attracted by the festival. Organisers estimate that about 143,000 students have participated in the national competition.
The State Music Gala is expected to bring together the President, senior government officials, education stakeholders and some of the country’s best-performing music and cultural groups for the final celebrations.
Ruto’s appearance also places Bungoma at the centre of the national cultural calendar, following the county’s selection to host this year’s edition of the Kenya National Music Festival.
