President Kibaki graces the 51ST National Drama festival

By John Harry Ndeta

NAIROBI, Kenya_ APRIL 10_Kenya’s President Mwai Kibaki, has identified education, health, unemployment and sustainability as key issues affecting Kenyan youths in the 21st century. While giving his State address at the National Drama Festival, President Kibaki said the youth comprise the majority segment of our population

Those below 15 years make up 40 percent of our population while those
between 15 to 35 years account for 38 percent.  The fact that over
three quarters of our people are below 35 years of age means we have a responsibility to urgently address socio-economic issues that affect them.

The 51ST edition of the Kenya National Drama Festival came to a climax on Friday April 9, 2010 at State House in Nairobi Kenya. Entertaining presentations of very high standards that underscore our students’ patriotism were the epic of the festival that was graced by his Excellency the President Mwai Kibaki.

“I take this opportunity to congratulate the young performers before us for the impressive presentations they have made today.  I also congratulate them for emerging victorious in their respective
categories", said the president in his opening remarks.

President Kibaki amongst other guests watched with keen interest and enjoyed seeing the rich talent, creativity and dedication showcased by the various participants.  The president expressed optimism that "the same level of hard work, creativity and commitment you have put into the Festival will also be exhibited in your academic studies".

President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya

Performing and creative arts are an important tool in the advancement of national social, political and economic development.  Since time immemorial, the welfare of society has been improved through positive
messages contained in music and drama.   In particular, drama has been used effectively to inspire and enrich the human experience.

 It also provides meaningful entertainment and constructive use of leisure
time.  Moreover, through drama, our youth and Kenyans in general are educated on topical issues that influence our society.

In this regard, the theme of this year’s Festival: “Developing Leadership Skills through Drama” was appropriate for Kenya, as a developing Nation.  The Festival provided an opportunity for leaders
in various sectors to reflect on their skills for purposes of serving our people even better.

It is with this in mind the Coalition Government has developed a distinct youth agenda to address these issues and provide Kenyan youth with skills and knowledge that will enable them secure a decent
livelihood.

As part of this agenda, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Youth and Sports with the support of UNICEF have partnered to establish a pioneer Kenya Youth Academy.  The Academy which opened its
doors last month at Kasarani will draw most of its students from the drama and music festivals.

Talented students specializing in music, dance, film and theatre will be well prepared to take up professional pursuits enabling them to boost their skills and self confidence for enhanced competitiveness in
the market place.  The President pledged his continued support in provision of a conducive environment for our artists to thrive and fully exploit their potential.

President Kibaki observed that as Kenya National Drama Festival drew to a close, all should remember that we are at a significant point in our national history with a new constitutional dispensation in sight.
“As we approach the conclusion of the constitution making process let us remember the need for harmonious co-existence in our society as articulated in the many presentations we have watched this morning, “ said Kibaki.

He observed that young people had clearly reminded Kenyans that we all belong to one nation in their performances.  The need to guard against all the negative forces that seek to divide Kenyans was a requirement for all peace loving Kenyans.

In this regard, Kibaki urged all Kenyans to unite as we enter the final stages in our pursuit of a new constitution. The final stage of the constitution review process is the referendum, where the sovereignty of the people  of Kenya shall be exercised.  I appeal to Kenyans to register as voters in large numbers to enable them exercise their right to vote in the referendum.