National music festival receives Sh100m boost

Pupils from KItengela International School lift the Kenya Music Festival ECDE overall winner trophy at the state concert in Eldoret State Lodge on August 16, 2024. [Peter Ochieng, Standard]

The Kenya Music Festival will received Sh100 million boost over the next four years to support the annual event.

The contribution by Equity Bank will be released in tranches of Sh25 million each year to support the development of performing arts.

The announcement was made during the Kenya Music Festival Awards Gala, held at the Eldoret State Lodge on Friday, where the bank also contributed Sh25 million to this year's event.

The event showcased performances in various genres, including traditional songs, dances, poetry, and public speaking.

Equity Group Chief Executive Officer, James Mwangi, said the contribution was made on bank's belief in the power of music to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

He highlighted the importance of supporting educational initiatives that nurture these qualities in young people.

“The festival underscored the role of music in education. The learners showed creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which are key elements of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). We appreciate the Kenya Music Festival committee’s efforts in creating an experience that supports positive attitudes and career opportunities in music and arts,” said Mwangi.

Principal Secretary Ministry of Education, Belio Kipsang, noted that the partnership will play a major role in boosting musical talents in the country.

“The Kenya Music Festivals illustrate the impact of education and the arts on youth development. Our collaboration with our partners reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for young Kenyans,” said Dr Kipsang.

The Kenya Music Festival serves as a platform for young Kenyans to express themselves creatively and develop valuable life skills.

The music festival was started back in 1922 by British settlers. Originally, the festival focused on Western classical music, but gradually incorporated African and Oriental music traditions post colonialism.

In 1988, the festival transitioned from British to Kenyan management, and was placed under the Ministry of Education.