Kisumu City is poised for a unique week-long celebration along its streets this Festive Season.
To facilitate this grand event, dubbed KEYFEST 2023, there will be temporary closures on several streets, allowing traders to showcase their wares openly.
City Manager Abala Wanga announced on Sunday that the Oginga Odinga triangle, encompassing Oginga Odinga Street, Jomo Kenyatta Avenue, and Ang’awa Avenue, will be notably affected.
This celebration aims to unite Kisumu's vibrant community, celebrate cultural diversity, and offer valuable networking opportunities for local stakeholders and businesses.
Wanga highlighted that the event promises an immersive experience filled with cultural displays, music, dance, diverse cuisines, entertainment, and a nod to the region's rich heritage.
These street closures are strategically planned to support traders in freely exhibiting their merchandise, contributing to the overall festive atmosphere of the celebration.
"Additionally, Central Park will host dedicated area for children to engage in playful activities, all while stringent security measures are put in place to ensure a safe and joyous celebration for all attendees," Wanga said.
He said Supermarkets will operate round the clock, and vendors will be allowed to display their goods along the streets.
In addition, a temporary vehicle access prohibition has been imposed to facilitate the festivities, with some streets temporarily closed to motorized traffic.
This restriction will be in effect from 2 pm on Sunday to 6 pm on Tuesday, December 26, and from 2 pm on Sunday, December 31, to 6 pm on Monday, January 1, 2024.
To navigate around these closures, the public is advised to utilize alternative routes, including Otieno Oyoo Street, Mosque Road, Kampala Street, Bank Street, Achieng Oneko, and Nzoia Road.
These alternative routes will provide access to the Central Business District (CBD), Milimani, and other key areas during the specified times.
Wanga noted that Minimal traffic operations will be allowed within the CBD, while feeder roads to the entertainment zones will be accessible through Court Road, K-City Business Park, Garissa Lodge, and Swan Center.
The festival will commence with the official lighting of the Governor’s tree at the CBD.
"We cordially invite all members of our community to partake in this grand celebration, embracing the essence of unity, culture, and joy. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by these temporary measures, "Abala stated.