Ekalees Cultural Centre, December 18 , 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
Mercy Ekaran is still riding high after President Ruto visited her beadwork booth at the 9th edition of Tobong’u Lore Festival.
For seven years now, Ekaran has been showcasing her craft at the cultural festival. And President Ruto’s visit this Tuesday ultimately gave her a big boost.
Her stunning beadwork designs stole the show! Other exhibitors turned to be her fans and customers.
“Every time President Ruto comes for Tobong’u Lore, his visits are like royal seal of approval to my exhibition; buyers throng to my Display, sales drastically increase. I am thankful to his support,” Ekaran humbles herself.
The beadwork expert said, she has seen consistent growth in her business since then and acknowledges that her future looks bright.
The Self-proclaimed Cultural Ambassador credits Fist Lady Racheal Ruto for launching the beadwork concept in Turkana back in 2018.
This year’s theme; ‘Cradle of Humanity, Home of Culture,’ perfectly captured the essence of Tobong’u Lore; welcoming all ‘back home’ to celebrate Turkana’s rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, the Head of State also checked out Pascal Esukuku’s eco-innovation technology of turning waste tyres into green economy in Turkana.
Esukuku’s innovation got the President’s nod, urging him to keep going as it fits rightly into the county’s green economy agenda.
“The president’s visit unlocked many opportunities for me. On Thursday, got 20 seat orders and 6 tables booked from Nairobi and within Turkana,” said Esukuku.
He said, he upcycles waste tyres into cushions, seats, tables and adds value by painting them up for attraction.
The Eco-warrior with his team have planted over 2000 trees in public schools in Napuu, Nabulon Kakemera, Kanamkemer, Nakwamekwi, Loyoo and St James Minor Seminary. Esukuku call to all people is to plant more trees to keep fighting climate change in Turkana.
The annual event drew over 100 exhibitors including government bodies, private firms, financial institutions, development partners, refugee-led organizations and cross-border exhibitors.
