President William Ruto at Bungoma State Lounge [Standard Jacklie Inyanji, Bernard Lusigi]
The Bungoma State Lounge on Friday came alive with the thunder of drums, the gentle strumming of traditional instruments, rhythmic dances and a dazzling display of colourful traditional attire as learners from across Kenya took to the stage to tell the country’s story through music, dance, poetry and drama.
For a moment, the venue was transformed into a cultural crossroads.
From the shores of Lake Victoria to the hills of Central Kenya, from the coastal rhythms of the Digo community to the graceful movements of Indian classical dance, the young performers carried the audience on a journey across cultures, communities and generations.
President William Ruto, who interacted with some of the learners dressed in colourful traditional attire as he made his way to the Bungoma State Lounge, listened as they spoke passionately about the place of music, drama and other creative activities in their lives.
The learners said the activities bring people together and provide a platform for young people to discover, nurture and showcase their talents.
Their message appeared to strike a chord with the President, who said the Competency-Based Curriculum had given creative arts a new place in Kenya’s education system.
“With CBC, music is no longer an extracurricular activity but a national priority. Music festivals should be budgeted for,” Ruto said.