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Schools showcase creativity at music festival
Nzoia Sugar presents a taarab song during the 98th Kenya National Music Festival at Kibabii University on August 4, 2026.
Schools from across the country claimed top honours in various categories as the 98th Kenya National Music Festival entered its third day at Kibabii University yesterday.
The competitions featured choral verse, folk songs, singing games and special compositions, with adjudicators rewarding performances that promoted education, culture, environmental conservation and social values.
Learners captivated audiences through creative storytelling, music and choreography, highlighting issues ranging from the value of teachers to wildlife conservation and responsible citizenship. Seven Folks School emerged among the day’s standout performers, winning the Kiswahili Choral Verse category with “Shujaa” and the Brook East Africa Special Composition category with “Mwokozi”, a choral verse advocating the protection of the African donkey.
The award-winning presentation featured performers Victor Mwangi, Louis Leakey, Frank Mutugi and Carey Kaari, who highlighted the importance of protecting donkeys and recognising their contribution to communities that depend on them for transport and livelihoods.
Through dramatic narration, song and dance, the learners urged society to protect the animals from neglect and abuse. The performances delivered memorable messages that resonated with the audience. One choral verse declared: “A teacher is our pride and treasure. Long live our teachers. If only I had the means, I would give the world to my teachers — my mentors and role models.”
The donkey-themed composition also underscored the animal’s resilience, with one performer saying: “I have seen the donkey work tirelessly without complaining,” while another described it as: “Our African donkey, our pride.”
Speaking after the performances, trainer Anthony Mugendi attributed the success to the learners’ commitment and hard work.
“We presented a total of seven classes at the national festival and have already secured two first positions. We are proud of this achievement,” he said.
Principal Secretary for Education John Ololtuaa during the official opening ceremony of the 98th Kenya National Music Festival at Kibabii University in Bungoma County on August 3, 2026.
Narok Primary School won the Samburu Folk Song category, followed by Olopikindongole Primary School in second place, while DEB Kianda finished third. Overcoming Faith Academy won the Singing Games category, with St Peter’s Mumias taking second place.
Nzoia Sugar Primary School, from Bungoma County, also entertained the audience with a Taarab performance encouraging young people to embrace hard work and obey their parents. Its colourful costumes, choreography and instrumental accompaniment earned applause from the audience.
Other schools that impressed adjudicators included Chogoria Girls, Westlands Primary, Siaya Township, Lugulu Boarding, Olentuntu, Lily of the Valley, Kwa Jomvu, Sacred Heart, Hill School, Kiganjo, Mowlem Superloaf, Ayub Okoko and Little Lilies.
In the Special Composition (Male Voices) category, notable performances were also presented by Star of the Sea, Limuru Town, Esther Preparatory, Mii Primary School, Kenya Relief, Nzoia Sugar, Strathmore School, Kidfarmco, Consolata School, St Agnes, St Mary’s and Kisyumu.
Nzoia Sugar Primary School head teacher Lydia Namisi praised her learners, saying their performance reflected dedication, discipline and teamwork. The 98th Kenya National Music Festival continues at Kibabii University, with schools competing in various music, dance and spoken word categories.
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