Twenty-two counties are participating in the 98th Kenya
Music and Cultural Festivals, which started on Wednesday at Moi Girls' High
School in Eldoret.
In a speech delivered on her behalf of Culture Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo by the director in the State Department for Culture, Arts and Heritage, Dr Kiprob Lagat, the CS described the annual event as a celebration of the country’s extraordinary talents and cultural diversity.
The CS challenged participants to give their best and urged invigilators to uphold the highest standards throughout the festivals, which will run until December 8 when President William Ruto is expected to attend.
This year’s theme is; “Threads of Culture, Weaves of Opportunity.” More than 20,000 participants from various counties are in Eldoret for the event, with Uasin Gishu fielding 5,000 participants in the different categories being showcased.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, who graced the opening ceremony, commended the Ministry of Culture for championing the preservation of culture through art and music.
He said the festival provides young people with a platform to learn and embrace Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, noting that there is a lot to learn from each other during the event.
He added that his administration is committed to supporting the youth, pointing out that funds have been allocated to the Fanikisha programme and other initiatives.
The governor also urged young people to uphold cultural values and use their talents for collective progress rather than personal gain.
Culture executive Lucy Ng’endo said the county stands to benefit significantly from hosting the national event and expressed appreciation for the support received from the governor in facilitating preparations.
Kenya Music and Cultural Festivals chairman Patrick Ngere reaffirmed that the festivals will continue to serve as a platform for nurturing talent and showcasing Kenya’s cultural heritage.
Winners in various categories will present their items before President Ruto at the Eldoret State Lodge.
Eldoret hosted the national Music and Drama Festivals for schools and colleges last year.
Governor Bii said the city now has modern facilities capable of hosting events of international standards.
He said the county is working with various stakeholders to ensure it remains a top destination for national and global forums.
Bii added that security and other logistical arrangements are in place to ensure the festivals run smoothly for both participants and residents.
