Photos: Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua Grace Ngemi Cia Ruraya Cultural Festival in Seattle

Photos: Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua Grace Ngemi Cia Ruraya Cultural Festival in Seattle

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua marked a key moment during his US tour by attending the Ngemi Cia Ruraya Cultural Festival held in Seattle, Washington, on Saturday. The festival, a celebration of Gikuyu culture, brought together hundreds of Kenyans in the diaspora, politicians, and entertainers in an electrifying night filled with music, dancing, and heartfelt pride.

In a show of unity and cultural pride, Gachagua was joined by his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader, Martha Karua. The trio was seen dancing enthusiastically, mingling with attendees, and taking part in various cultural activities at Saghalie Park.

While reflecting on the event, Gachagua said:

“Music is a powerful messaging medium that, over the years, has been effective and efficient.”

He went on to express his joy, noting the deeper significance of the evening:

“What a memorable evening at the 1st Edition of Ngemi Cia Ruraya held at Saghalie Park, Seattle, Washington.”

“Accompanied by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, my sister Martha Karua and surrounded by vibrant music and rich cultural heritage, we danced the night away, celebrating our roots and unity.”

A Night of Cultural Magic

From the moment the event began, there was an air of celebration. Crowds dressed in traditional attire swayed to the rhythms of Mugithi music, while laughter and cheers echoed through the park. Local and international Gikuyu artists took the stage, including Kameme FM presenter Muthoni Wa Kirumba and the popular Mugithi musician, Samidoh, who both thrilled the audience with powerful performances.

Gachagua and Karua didn’t shy away from the limelight. They actively participated in the dances, posed for selfies, and engaged with Kenyans from all walks of life. The event radiated a sense of home away from home, connecting Kenyans living abroad to their cultural roots.

A Festival with Firsts

This was the first time the Ngemi Cia Ruraya festival was hosted abroad, marking a new milestone for the Gikuyu diaspora. Previous editions have only been held within Kenya, but the overwhelming turnout and positive energy in Seattle have now set the stage for a global cultural movement.

A festival organizer stated:

“We wanted to bring a piece of home to Kenyans in the diaspora. Seeing such a turnout confirms that culture unites us, regardless of where we live.”

Defying Political Threats

Gachagua’s trip was not without controversy. Prior to his departure from Kenya, the former Deputy President held a press briefing, claiming that his close associates had received threats meant to stop him from traveling.

He made a bold statement:

“I have been threatened by people close to William Ruto who called some of my people today and said that they will want to stop me from leaving the country.”

Unfazed, he declared:

“I have no problem. If you want to come and arrest me at the airport, as you were threatening us, you can go ahead.”

“You cannot sell fear to us, and even if you sold it to us, we cannot buy it.”

Despite the threats, Gachagua proceeded with his international engagements. His tour spans several U.S. states, including Texas, California, Washington, Massachusetts, and Maryland, where he is expected to continue engaging with Kenyans in the diaspora.

Unity Over Politics

For many in attendance, the event was not just about music or culture—it was a powerful symbol of unity, even among political rivals. Martha Karua’s presence alongside Gachagua caught many by surprise, but it also sent a strong message about the importance of coming together in celebration of shared heritage.

A festival attendee remarked:

“This is the kind of leadership we want to see—where our leaders put aside political differences and connect with the people through culture.”

As the music played on and the night stretched into the early morning, one thing was clear: Ngemi Cia Ruraya was more than a festival—it was a homecoming for a people determined to stay rooted, no matter how far they roam.

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Photos: Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua Grace Ngemi Cia Ruraya Cultural Festival in Seattle