- More than 24,900 learners entered eKitabu’s 2026 Digital Essay Competition under “Let Me Speak.”
- Learners addressed bullying, examination cheating and other difficult issues affecting their everyday lives.
- A new mother-tongue category enabled learners to express experiences through indigenous Kenyan languages.
More than 24,900 learners across Kenya have submitted entries to this year’s eKitabu Digital Essay Competition, marking the highest participation recorded since the competition began.
The 2026 competition, themed “Let Me Speak,” provided learners with a platform to write about experiences, challenges and issues affecting their lives, including bullying and examination cheating.
Learners also explored concerns they may find difficult to discuss with their parents, teachers and other adults, placing young people’s voices at the centre of the competition.
The competition, now in its 14th year, attracted learners from upper primary, junior and senior schools across the country.
For the first time, eKitabu introduced a Mother Tongue category, allowing learners to write in indigenous Kenyan languages.
The category attracted 363 essays, expanding opportunities for learners to communicate their experiences using languages closely connected to their communities, culture and identity.
Other entries were submitted in English, Kiswahili and foreign languages, as well as inclusive formats such as Braille and Kenyan Sign Language.
According to eKitabu, this year’s entries demonstrate the diversity of learners’ experiences and the role creative expression can play in enabling children to speak about matters affecting them.
The competition also seeks to promote creativity, critical thinking, reading, writing and the use of technology in learning.
Winners to be announced in Nairobi
Winners of the competition will be announced during the Nairobi International Book Fair at Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi on Friday, September 25, 2026.
Successful learners stand to receive prizes including scholarship funds, computing devices, certificates, gift hampers and public recognition.
The competition was officially launched in May, with separate activities held for primary and secondary school learners in Nairobi.
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eKitabu says the initiative continues to provide learners with opportunities to express their ideas and experiences while encouraging teachers, parents and caregivers to listen more closely to young people’s voices.
By Joseph Mambili
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