In a turn of events that caught many by surprise, hundreds of travellers found themselves stranded near Suswa, on the evening of Sunday, August 27, 2023. The Maa Cultural Festival took an unexpected turn after a collision happened between a matatu and a group of cows.
Following the accident, Maasai members took it upon themselves to block the road, causing a traffic jam that stretched for several kilometres. The usually bustling Narok-Mai Mahiu road left the travellers stranded from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Stranded Travellers and Maa Cultural Festival
The collision, while unfortunate, served as the catalyst for the Maasai community to assert their presence and cultural identity.
Despite the presence of the police on-site, their efforts were futile in clearing the road, as the Maasai community demanded the presence of the governor and a compensation of 100,000 Kenyan Shillings for the cows that had been killed.
The standstill lasted from 7 in the evening until the early hours of the morning, finally dispersing at 2 a.m.
The Maa Cultural Festival itself is a spectacle to behold, encompassing four days of vibrant activities and cultural displays. The festival, graced by the presence of the president, serves as a platform for the Maasai community to showcase their rich traditions and heritage.
The Maasai culture is distinct and captivating, standing out as a unique identity of the Maa people.
The incident near Suswa, while causing inconvenience to travellers, sheds light on the dynamic nature of cultural celebrations and their profound significance. It served as a vivid reminder of the power of culture to bring people together, even in the face of unexpected obstacles.
