Preparations for the third edition of the Twende Zetu Butiama Pilgrimage Safari have entered a critical phase, with the CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest, Dr. Ronex Tendo Kisembo, completing a significant reconnaissance mission across the region.
The pilgrimage, scheduled for October 1st-20th, 2026, aims to honor the collective legacy of East Africa's founding fathers. In an emotional address, Dr. Kisembo evoked the spirit of sacrifice that built the region, stating, "All gave some, some gave all. We may know them all, but we owe them all. Remembering them is noble."
Dr. Kisembo revealed that the tour included visits to the ancestral homes of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere (Tanzania), Dr. Apollo Milton Obote (Uganda), Mzee Jomo Kenyatta (Kenya), and Mzee Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. The expanded itinerary recognizes that the East African Community was a collective effort.
"The pilgrimage is more than just a journey; it is a learning experience about servant leadership, sacrifice, and Pan-Africanism," Dr. Kisembo explained. He noted that while the event traditionally focused on Nyerere, it was essential to honor the other leaders who laid the foundation for the EAC .
The 2026 pilgrimage will officially commence with a flag-off ceremony at Nkrumah Hall, University of Dar es Salaam, before pilgrims proceed to the EAC Secretariat in Arusha, then onward to Kenyatta University in Nairobi and Makerere University in Kampala. The journey's spiritual heart will be felt on October 7th–8th, when pilgrims gather at Dr. Obote's ancestral home in Akokoro. On October 9th, they will join the nation at Kololo to celebrate Uganda's Independence Anniversary, before departing on October 10th for Butiama, with a stopover at the iconic Serengeti National Park. The pilgrimage will reach its solemn peak on October 14th—Nyerere Day, a public holiday—as pilgrims pay tribute to Mwalimu Julius Nyerere. From Butiama, the caravan will proceed to Bondo, Siaya County, on October 15th–16th to honor the legacy of Mzee Jaramogi Oginga Odinga at his ancestral home, a particularly poignant moment as it falls on the anniversary of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga's passing (October 15th, 2025). On October 17th, the pilgrims will visit the National Assembly of Kenya to pay homage to Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, before heading to his Gatundu home in Kiambu. The historic journey will culminate on October 20th, 2026, with Mashujaa Day (Heroes' Day )celebration in Eldoret, bringing the pilgrimage to a fitting close.
Dr. Kisembo has formally reached out to regional Heads of State, including H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (Uganda), H.E. William Ruto (Kenya), and H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania), requesting their guidance and direction to ensure the mission is executed seamlessly .
"I now look forward to your timely action, guidance, and direction to enable us to plan and execute our mission seamlessly," Dr. Kisembo stated. He expressed gratitude for the leaders' belief in the "Jumuiya Dream" and welcomed any opportunity to brief them in detail .
With over 1,000 pilgrims expected, the event is positioning itself as a cornerstone of cultural exchange and regional unity .
