Maralal will host the 32nd Samburu International Camel Derby from September 25–28, promising to attract over 30,000 visitors for a celebration of sport, culture, and heritage.

The four-day festival will feature three days of camel races, cultural performances, artisan markets, and traditional cuisine, offering tourists a unique experience of northern Kenya’s vibrant traditions.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano invited the world to witness the festival’s mix of sport and culture.

“We have seen participation from across the country, all the way from the coast, from Central Kenya, from the Rift Valley and all over the country. It is a forum that showcases our rich culture, which blends well with sports. It is also a great platform to promote peace in the northern region,” Miano said.

Participants from over 70 countries will bring international flair to the iconic event, reinforcing Kenya’s status as a leading tourism destination.

The Samburu International Camel Derby has historically attracted both local and global audiences, providing a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector.

Samburu Governor Jonathan Lati emphasised the economic benefits of the event, noting that the impact extends from international arrivals to local communities.

“The economic benefits are huge. They start from Nairobi, or when people land at our airports, it affects the entire tourism of Kenya. The Samburu communities and local communities and the pastoral communities also get to benefit directly and indirectly from tourism activities,” he said.

The Samburu International Camel Derby continues to stand out as a leading sports and cultural event, uniting communities, promoting tourism, and celebrating Kenya’s rich heritage.