Puus Kaat 2026: Mwaghavul unveil digital-driven cultural festival to boost tourism, unity in Plateau

The Mwaghavul nation in Plateau State has unveiled plans for the 2026 edition of the Puus Kaat Annual Cultural Festival, with organisers pledging a fusion of innovation aimed at promoting cultural preservation, tourism, and community development in Plateau State.

Speaking at a press conference held in Jos, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Chief Jerry Satmark, described the festival as “a living tribute” to the heritage and enduring values of the Mwaghavul people.

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Satmark who is also chief of Staff to Governor Mutfwang said the annual event, which has evolved into a major cultural platform, would this year focus on leveraging technology to preserve and project indigenous traditions to a global audience.

“With the theme, ‘Mwaghavul Heritage, Digital Future: Preserving Culture Through Innovation,’ we are making a firm commitment not only to safeguard our cultural legacy but also to ensure it thrives in a rapidly evolving world,” he said.

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He noted that the festival has long served as a symbol of unity and identity for the Mwaghavul people, adding that this year’s edition would be expanded to reflect their resilience and vibrant cultural expressions.

The committee chairman outlined a lineup of activities designed to engage diverse audiences, including a marathon race, cultural pageantry, symposium, traditional games, and a community medical outreach.

According to him, the marathon race would promote physical fitness and communal bonding, while the Miss Culture Pageant would celebrate intellect, elegance, and cultural heritage among participants.

He added that the symposium would provide a platform for intellectual discourse, while the traditional Tubbwor game would revive indigenous recreational practices.

Satmark further disclosed that the festival would commence on April 22 with guided tours of notable Mwaghavul landmarks, followed by an awareness rally and official opening ceremony.

He said the second day would focus on artistic expressions, featuring competitions, storytelling sessions, and a film and music night dedicated to Mwaghavul creativity.

“The third day will combine intellectual engagement and cultural entertainment, with the symposium, Tubbwor games, and the cultural pageant taking centre stage,” he added.

The grand finale, scheduled for April 25, will feature a cultural dance competition and a colourful procession from the Mishkaham’s Palace, culminating in the main celebration.

Satmark disclosed that the festival date had received approval from relevant authorities, including the Plateau State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

He described Puus Kaat as more than a cultural gathering, noting that it serves as a catalyst for tourism, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence.

“Puus Kaat is a movement. It is a platform that connects our past with our future while creating opportunities for economic and social growth,” he said.

He called on tourists, cultural enthusiasts, development partners, and the media to support the initiative, urging Nigerians and the international community to experience the richness of Mwaghavul culture.

“We invite the world to Plateau to witness firsthand the creativity, hospitality, and cultural pride of our people,” he added.

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