NAIROBI, Kenya, July 1 – President William Ruto’s directive to strengthen Kenya’s creative economy has reshaped this year’s Kenya Music Festival by bringing professional artists into the programme to mentor students and help nurture talent for the creative industry.
The 2026 festival, themed “Enhancing the Creative Economy through Artistic Expression for Sustainable Development,” has introduced industry practitioners alongside teachers to guide learners, exposing them to practical skills and career opportunities in music, drama and other performing arts.
Speaking during the Nairobi regional opening at Buru Buru Girls High School, Director of Field Coordination and Co-curricular Activities Nelson Sifuna said the integration of professional artists into the festival had already begun following the President’s directive.
He said outstanding performers from the regional competitions will qualify for the national finals, scheduled to be held at Kibabii University in Bungoma in August.
The annual festival has attracted participants from early childhood education institutions, primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, competing in more than 600 categories.
Organisers say the event is increasingly being used as a platform to identify and nurture talent while exposing learners to opportunities within Kenya’s growing creative economy.
Equity Bank has committed Sh25 million to support this year’s festival for the second consecutive year.
The lender said the sponsorship will help reward outstanding performers, with winners set to receive trophies, certificates and cash prizes at the regional and national levels.
