Wajir: The 98th edition of the Kenya Music Festival regional competitions for the Northeastern region officially commenced in Wajir County, uniting students, teachers, adjudicators, and education officials from Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir counties.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Regional Chairperson of the Kenya Music Festival and Principal of Raha Girls Secondary School, Deka Mohamud, emphasized the event's role in fostering peaceful coexistence, unity, and cultural understanding among learners through music and drama. She praised the efforts of the teams that advanced to the regional level, highlighting the festival as a platform for talent development and growth.
Mohamud stressed the necessity of fairness in the adjudication process, recognizing the considerable investment schools have made in preparation for the event. She urged participants to align their performances with the theme, 'Enhancing Creative Economy Through Artistic Expression for Sustainable Development.' Mohamud expressed pride in hosting the regional event in Wajir, acknowledging music as a transformative tool for social and economic change in Northeastern Kenya.
Ahmed Abdi, acting Chairperson of the Primary Schools Music Committee, also addressed attendees, expressing gratitude to festival organizers and participants. Abdi assured the gathering of the adjudicators' integrity and professionalism, trusting them to identify the most deserving teams. He also reminded patrons to maintain silence during performances to ensure judges can evaluate presentations without interruption.
The event was graced by the Regional Director of Education, County Directors, Ministry officials, and other dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in promoting arts and culture in the region.