The best performances of the 96th Kenya National Music Festival will be staged at the Eldoret State Concert on Friday, entertaining an audience graced by President William Ruto, accompanied by other dignitaries. This year has had some fantastic talent for the festival, which will be paired against the top performances staged on Tuesday during the Gala at Moi Girls School, Eldoret.
Among the sterling performances, Alliance Girls High School topped in the choirs classes, winning several top positions in various classes and also getting the prize for the best female voice in the high school category. The choir director, David Isindu, said the success was due to the administration of the school and due to the motto “Walk in the Light”, with Alumni’s unending support. Notably, the school’s achievements were further brought out by the presence of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology Vice-Chancellor Emily Akuno, an alumna who offered moral support.
Other performances at the Finalist Concert came in from various schools all over in Kenya, both at the primary and secondary levels, such as Sabuuley Boys, Moi Girls Kamangu, Kipsigis Girls’, and Kenya High. There were important contributions to the event from institutions of higher learning, such as Kenyatta University and Sigalagala National Polytechnic.
What was inimitable in this festival was the ability of poetry to project powerful narratives, spanning both rural and urban themes. Some of the poets, such as Foy Ongaya, testified to unique voices and rhythms each performer brought on stage. An adjudicator, Dr. Daniel Mwaringa, praised the poets for the ability to visit both intimate and expansive themes with grace and precision.
From Vihiga, Bunyore Girls High School dominated in categories of English choral verse. Their teacher, Godfrey Inyangala, insisted on the depth of passion and thought that each performance provokes. Other outstanding poets included Evans Mwavali from Kagema School, Margaret Njaaga of Moi Girls Nairobi, and Joan Muchina of St Bakhita Girls. Such performances cement just why language is a powerful tool—why poetry can shake worlds.