The Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, on Monday, 10th August 2026 graced the ongoing Kenya Music Festivals 2026 and commended the University for its exemplary hosting of the national event.
The Principal Secretary underscored the important role of music and the creative arts in education, talent development, cultural preservation and national cohesion, noting that such platforms provide learners with opportunities to identify, nurture and showcase their talents.
Now in their second week, the Festival has attracted a record number of participants, with universities alone presenting approximately 8,000 participants. The festival brings together learners and participants from pre-primary, primary, junior and senior schools, TVET institutions, universities and other organizations.
The event has provided a vibrant platform for participants to showcase diverse cultures, languages and artistic abilities, including performances by learners with disabilities. Participants from the Coast, North Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley and other regions of Kenya, as well as parts of Uganda, have further enhanced cultural exchange and national integration.
During her visit, Dr. Inyangala paid a courtesy call on the University Management before joining participants and stakeholders at the festival. She was accompanied by the Chairman of the Kenya Music Festivals, Prof. Fredrick Ngala, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Teachers Service Commission, Ms. Eveleen Mitei, among other education stakeholders.
Prof. Ngala briefed the Principal Secretary on the progress of the festival, noting that the 2026 edition had recorded the highest number of participants compared with previous years. He commended Kibabii University for its effective coordination of the event, particularly in providing suitable venues, security and health services, and described the University as an ideal host for the national festival.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joshua Ogendo expressed the University’s appreciation to the Ministry of Education for entrusting Kibabii University with the responsibility of hosting the 2026 Kenya Music Festivals. He also commended the Ministry, festival organizers, University staff and other stakeholders for their collaboration in ensuring the smooth running of the event.
In her remarks, Dr. Inyangala emphasized that music and the creative arts should be viewed as an integral part of education rather than merely as entertainment. As Kenya continues to implement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), she observed that festivals such as these provide important opportunities to identify and develop learners’ talents and competencies while helping them explore appropriate career pathways.
Dr. Inyangala further applauded Kibabii University and the festival organizers for their efforts in delivering a successful national event. She noted that the approach demonstrated through the Kenya Music Festivals could serve as a model for other ministries and public institutions seeking to strengthen talent development and meaningful engagement with young people.
The Kenya Music Festivals 2026 will culminate on 14th August 2026 with the State Concert at the Bungoma State Lodge.
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