Tuuti was coined by the local Bukusu community to refer to the hooting of the Nairobi - Malaba train as it approached Bungoma Railway Station.

The train carried locals returning home, usually after long periods away from their families and culture. The train also had travelers from other parts of Kenya, East Africa and the world. Thus, the train contributed to the creation of the Bungoma cosmopolis.

The hooting (Tuuti) aroused expectations from the travelers. The locals looked forward to meals and drinks such as Kukhu's chicken, smoked beef, Mboga ushago and Bukusu tea. The non locals hoped they would find quality food that would appeal to their palates.