- The 98th Kenya National Music Festival has officially begun at Kibabii University, bringing together thousands of learners to showcase Kenya’s cultural heritage and artistic talent.
- Schools have performed traditional music and choral pieces, with learners mastering instruments like the Marimba, Shiriri, and Litungu.
- The festival has provided young performers with opportunities to discover talents, build confidence, and celebrate Kenya’s cultural diversity while competing for national honours.
The 98th Kenya National Music Festival officially began on Sunday, 2nd August, 2026, at Kibabii University in Bungoma County, bringing together thousands of learners from across the country who showcased colourful choreography and powerful vocal performances in a celebration of Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talent.
One of the colourful performances came from ACK Valley View School in Juja, Kiambu County, whose glorious band captivated the audience with a powerful display of African traditional music.
The members of the glorious band comprised Christabel Wambui, Joy Waithera, Olivia Wanjiku, Peris Wanjs, Daniel Mung’ere, Ethan Kariuki, Natalie Muthoni, Andrea Wanjiru and Joy Precious. They confidently showcased a variety of indigenous instruments including the Marimba, drums, Kayamba. Kengele, Shiriri, shakers and the Litungu.
They performed a rich selection of songs drawn from different Kenyan communities. They opened with a Luhya song, Nolangwa Obolenge Endi Hano, which teaches children the importance of responding respectfully when called by their parents.
In their next performance, they performed the Swahili classic Pilipili by Chakacha Band and Wape Vidonge by Samba Mapangala before concluding with another Luhya song celebrating the joy of children returning home safely from school.
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The band’s trainer, Jeremiah Omulana, said preparations for their performances began in April.
“Initially, the learners showed little interest, but we kept encouraging them by demonstrating melodies on different instruments. Gradually, they developed a passion for traditional music. I am delighted that they have qualified for the national festival for the second time,” he said.
Competition in the percussion band category drew participation from St Clement Orthodox Primary School, Moi Airbase Primary School, Ngwata Primary School, Mabole Primary School, Awasi Primary School and Kericho Montessori School.
Other schools competing were St Clement Primary School (Nairobi), Ndera Primary School, Shanzu Josma School, St. Comboni Kacheliba School, Mwanamkuu Primary School, Ulawe Apate Primary School and Abothogochi Boarding School.
Mercy Waiyego, a Marimba player, said she mastered the instrument through regular practice under the guidance of her music teacher, Jeremiah Omulama.
“At first, it was challenging, but with patience and encouragement, I became confident. I love the rich, beautiful sound of the Marimba because it makes people happy. Playing it has taught me discipline, teamwork, concentration and confidence. It has helped me discover my talent and inspired my dream of becoming a great musician who promotes Kenyan culture,” she said.
Daniel Mung’ere, who plays the Shiriri, said learning the instrument had transformed his confidence.
“Our music teacher introduced me to the ‘Shiriri’ and trained me through consistent practice. I enjoy learning new rhythms every day. Music has taught me patience, confidence and teamwork. It has enabled me to perform before large audiences and represent my school with pride,” he said.
Andrea Wanjiru, a Litungu player, said playing the traditional musical instrument had deepened her appreciation of African heritage and inspired her to preserve Kenyan culture.
“I learnt the ‘Litungu’ from our music teacher, who encouraged me to practice until I mastered it. I love its unique and peaceful sound because it reflects our rich African heritage. Playing it has improved my creativity, discipline and self-confidence and inspired me to preserve our culture,” she said.
Educationist Stephen Kamore said the Kenya National Music Festival provides learners with an opportunity to appreciate the country’s cultural diversity through music and travel.
“Our children are not only showcasing their talents but are also learning about the country by visiting places such as Kisumu, Lake Victoria and Kericho. These experiences broaden their understanding of Kenya’s rich heritage,” he said.
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Meanwhile, Moi Forces Academy impressed adjudicators with three choral verse performances, a winning solo set piece and a Maasai folk song.
The school is being mentored by Veronica Kerubo, Nickson Nagide, popularly known as “Wapi Equity”, and Onyino Godfrey.
Moi Forces Academy is seeking to defend its title for a third consecutive year at the Kenya National Music Festival with its highly anticipated production, ‘Hema Letu.’
The production was scripted by Mr. Nagide, who earned the nickname “Wapi Equity” after guiding the school to three consecutive victories in the category. Moi Forces Academy has entered a total of 30 items at this year’s festival.
Elsewhere, Eirah Akoth of Serve Academy delivered the solo set piece ‘What Grew’ by Katia Francis. Sacred Steps Academy presented a descant recorder recital, while Sanyu Victory School, Moi Air Base Primary School and Oljororok also staged impressive performances.
By Bernard Magada
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