- The move seeks to nature talent and spur the growth of the creative economy.
- This follows a partnership deal with the financial lender which also contributed another Sh25 million during this year's festival that was held in Eldoret.
The Kenya Music Festival organisers will get a Sh25 million boost every year for the next four years from Equity Bank.
The move seeks to nature talent and spur the growth of the creative economy.
This follows a partnership deal with the financial lender which also contributed another Sh25 million during this year's festival held in Eldoret.
Equity Bank says it has committed Sh100 million over the next four years in a partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Kenya Music Festival, to advance its mission of transforming lives through education.
"As a partner of the Kenya Music Festival, Equity Bank contributed Sh25 million for this year's festival. It has also committed an additional Sh100 million over the next four years, with an annual contribution of Sh25 million," Equity Bank CEO James Mwangi said.
He said the collaboration underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives.
It highlights its belief in the role of music in promoting culture as a powerful catalyst for positive change for a nation and its people.
The Kenya Music Festival Awards Gala at Moi Girls High School in Eldoret, highlighted the talent and dedication of Kenya's youth.
The festival featured traditional songs, dances, poetry and public speaking, reflecting this year’s theme: Talent Development for Growth of the Creative Economy.
Speaking during the gala, Mwangi expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education and the Kenya Music Festival for allowing the bank to be a partner in the festivals.
He said interacting with learners and their trainers from the zonal level to the national level was a rewarding experience, highlighting the students' ability to express themselves through music and performance.
“The festival underscored the role of music in education. The learners showed creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are key elements of the Competency-Based Curriculum," he said.
"We appreciate the Kenya Music Festival committee’s efforts in creating an experience that supports positive attitudes and career opportunities in music and arts,” he added.
The CEO appreciated the role that music and drama festivals played in nurturing his own creativity and innovation as he participated in the competition in his early life.
Education PS Belio Kipsang said the event illustrated the impact of education and the arts on youth development.
“Our collaboration with our partners reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for young Kenyans.”
The gala concluded with awards to some of the top performances presented before President William Ruto at the Eldoret State Lodge.
The festival has once again highlighted Kenya’s remarkable talent and the significant role of music in personal and societal growth.
The bank reaffirmed its dedication to supporting educational initiatives and creating opportunities for all.
Mwangi said its ongoing partnership with the ministry, the Kenya Music Festival and the national drama festivals reflects its commitment to advancing education and nurturing future leaders.
"Equity is dedicated to advancing education as a fundamental driver of progress, offering transformative opportunities through its Wings to Fly and Elimu programmes," Mwangi added.