Corruption, patriotism and CBC take centre stage in music festival

Eldoret Primary School performed a Griama folk song during the Kenya Music Festival at Moi Girls High School in Uasin Gishu County on August 7, 2024. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

Stylish dance moves, electrifying performances, and creativity are on display at the ongoing music festival in Eldoret.

Learners are using these national festivals to showcase their talents while delivering powerful messages to a country facing economic and governance challenges.

Participants are weaving themes of corruption, cultural pride, and calls for responsible governance into their thrilling performances.

Since Saturday, over 130,000 people have gathered for the  96th edition of the Kenya Music Festivals at Moi Girls High School Eldoret. Amid the vibrant displays of song, dance, and poetry, participants have highlighted issues affecting ordinary Kenyans, such as the struggles of mama mbogas and subsistence farmers.

Stellar performances from Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) students and secondary schools have subtly addressed national issues while entertaining audiences.

Corruption

When Egoji TTC took the stage to perform 'Tuwajibike' in the Pop Talent Show category, they addressed the country's most serious issue: corruption.

'Tuwajibike' was filled with lines urging Kenyans to take the lead in the fight against corruption.

"Slay the dragon of corruption. Why do we condone a vice that is dragging us back?" the students sang.

Their performance continued: "My prayer to Kenyans, from the farmer to doctors, is to exercise responsibility. If you are a doctor or a mama mboga, have a sense of responsibility."

Love for Kenya

Bondo TTC chose to rise above the gloom generated by economic turbulence, expressing optimism about a better Kenya.

Waving the Kenyan flag during their dance, the teacher trainees performed 'Kenya Nchi Yangu' in the Pop Talent Show category.

"Kenya, I love you. Your flag shines. I am proud to be a Kenyan. I will die for Kenya," they sang, capturing the audience's attention.

Their performance expressed hope that the country will achieve progress.

CBC

The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) became a hot topic when Kenyanya TTC and St. Mark's Kigari TTC performed songs praising teachers and the teaching profession.

Kenyanya TTC, through their song 'Mwalimu', praised the CBC and highlighted teaching as a talent.

"I didn’t want to be a teacher, but when I saw the new curriculum, I admired and embraced it," sang the lead vocalist in their Pop Talent Show category.

St Mark's Kigari TTC performed their composition 'Mwalimu na Utu', emphasising the importance of encouraging teachers for their role in nurturing talent and imparting knowledge.

"Teachers lead by example. They play crucial roles and shape society," they sang.

Culture

In the African cultural dances category, schools like Nairobi's Salama Primary School, Bongwe Comprehensive from the Coast region, and Eldoret Premier School delivered spectacular traditional dances.

Bongwe Comprehensive stood out with their Mijikenda Sengenya dance.

Participants also showcased remarkable performances in the anthem contest, featuring this year's sponsor, Equity Bank.

Nairobi's Maxwell Preparatory School and Familia Takatifu Comprehensive School from Rift Valley participated in the anthem competition.