Mashujaa: Artistes honoured for role in shaping national heritage

Victoria Wakio Mzenge. (Courtesy)

Last Sunday as Kenya celebrated Mashujaa Day, the spotlight shone on a group of artists and cultural practitioners. They were honoured for their contribution, through creative talents, to preserving and promoting Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.

“Through their work, they ensure that the country’s diverse cultures, traditions, and histories are not only preserved but continue to evolve and thrive in a modern world,” said President William Ruto said.

One of the honorees, Mzee Meza Morowa Galana from Tana River, remembered for his significant contribution to the Kenya National Anthem. Drawing inspiration from a Pokomo lullaby, Meza’s melody was adopted by the National Anthem Commission in the lead-up to independence. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 96.

Desmond Katana Harrison, from Kilifi, has made a name for himself as a songwriter, composer, and music producer. He has composed songs for Them Mushrooms, Angela Chibalonza, Mary Atieno, Esther Wahome, Fundi Konde, Keng-Kenge and Princess Farida, among others.

Victoria Wakio Mzenge is a leading screen, stage and voice actor, recognised for her contributions in the performing arts.

Daniel Madalanga Ongare from Migori Daniel was feted for exemplary contribution in Kenyan music and culture. He has played a key role in the promotion of the Kenya Music and Culture Festival and is the director of the International Hymm Festival. He is also the technical director of the Nairobi Battle of Choirs festival as well as lead choirmaster at St Stephens’ ACK Jogoo Road.

Similarly, Paul Kipkurui Langat, known as Subembe, from Bomet, has used his platform in music to address societal challenges, mentoring up-and-coming artists and supporting collaborations that give voice to pressing social issues. [Mike Kihaki]

And Dixon Asiago Masita from Kisii has been at the forefront of using murals to educate communities on social and economic issues. His ‘Talking Wall’ project has become a powerful tool for dialogue, sparking important conversations in public spaces.

Andrew Wanyonyi Kakai from Bungoma, famously known as Wanyonyi Kakai, is a renowned Bukusu Benga guitarist, and Litungu guru from Bungoma County. He was feted for his contribution to the preservation of the Bukusu cultural norms through the performance of his music. Performing during national days, his music has been used to champion patriotism and national pride.

Morris Kobia Lyria, better known as Motif Di Don, is celebrated as one of Kenya’s finest music producers. Motif has worked in the industry for over a decade, pioneering the trap beat genre in the country. His most remarkable achievement, however, is his role in bringing the Genge style to international audiences.

Edwin Odhiambo Ooro, known as Edu the Coach, is a professional choreographer and creative director who has spent over 20 years in the creative industry. His work with Sarakasi Trust, a charity that trains dancers from underprivileged communities, is particularly notable.

Patrick Enos Lukhachi Nanjero is known for his collaboration with the band Ricky Na Marafiki, Patrick’s expertise in blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary sounds has shaped the band’s distinctive musical style for over two decades.

His music has not only promoted Kenya’s cultural identity but has also contributed to the preservation of the nation’s musical traditions. Patrick’s work extends beyond the stage; he has mentored out-of-school youth, teaching them the technical aspects of music and helping them find their own voices in the industry.

And Manasseh Geoffrey Mweri has dedicated his life to using music as a tool for cultural preservation. A music producer, songwriter, and performing artist, Manasseh has been at the forefront of safeguarding the Mijikenda community’s intangible cultural heritage, particularly the kaya forests.

Manasseh’s work reminds us of the power of music in preserving the stories and heritage of Kenya’s diverse communities.

Finally, Prof Washington Ambrose Omondi from Siaya was recognized for his lifetime of contributions to music education in Kenya. A key member of the National Anthem Commission, Prof Omondi was part of the team that composed Kenya’s national anthem.

His leadership in the Presidential National Music Commission has helped shape the future of music and dance in Kenya, ensuring that research, preservation, and education remain at the heart of the industry.

In the world of film, Francis Irungu Mwangi from Kirinyaga stands out for his dedication to nurturing talent. With over 36 years in the film industry, Irungu has mentored many young filmmakers at the Kenya Film School in Nairobi.

His 21 minutes award-winning documentary, ‘Mother Nature Manifestation in the Great Rift Valley’, celebrates the beauty of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley natural landscapes, inspiring audiences to appreciate the country’s environmental heritage.

In the field of indigenous knowledge, George Nyang’au Nyakundi from Nyamira has dedicated his life to preserving the traditions of the Abagusii community. Through the Mwanyagetinge Cultural Heritage Centre, he educates the younger generation on the importance of safeguarding cultural practices, ensuring that this knowledge is passed down through the ages.

Traditional medicine also received recognition, with practitioners like Grace Akasa Museti from Embu being honored for their role in preserving ancient healing methods by sharing her knowledge with younger generations,

Grace is helping to keep alive the wisdom of her ancestors, offering a bridge between the past and the future.