Kibabii University Ready to Host 2026 Kenya National Music Festival in Bungoma
According to the official program released by the festival organizing committee, participants will start reporting to Kibabii University on Saturday, 1st August, ahead of the official opening ceremony slated for Sunday, 2nd August.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Yamara Sandra
All roads will lead to Bungoma County as Kibabii University gears up to host the 2026 edition of the Kenya National Music Festival from 1st to 14th August 2026.
The Ministry of Education has confirmed that preparations are complete for what is expected to be one of the largest co-curricular gatherings in the country, bringing together close to 30,000 learners, trainers and officials from across the 47 counties.
The annual extravaganza will draw participants from ECDE centres, primary schools, junior and senior secondary schools, teacher training colleges, TVET institutions and universities to compete and showcase their prowess in music, traditional dance, modern dance, drama, choral verse, spoken word, and other creative arts.
According to the official program released by the festival organizing committee, participants will start reporting to Kibabii University on Saturday, 1st August, ahead of the official opening ceremony slated for Sunday, 2nd August.
The competitive segment, popularly known as the Action Days, will run from 2nd to 10th August. During this period, adjudicators will assess performances across hundreds of classes, ranging from African folk songs and traditional dances to contemporary compositions and special needs categories.
Western Region Coordinator Peter Murai said the festival remains a critical platform for nurturing talent and fostering unity.
“The competition gives learners a chance to showcase their creativity while promoting national cohesion and cultural diversity. It is more than entertainment; it is education through culture,” Murai noted.
After the competitive rounds, attention will shift to the Gala Concert scheduled for 11th and 12th August at Kibabii University. The Gala will feature the best-ranked items selected by adjudicators and will be staged before invited guests, sponsors and education stakeholders.
A student from Kamusinga Boys High School, Margaret Ochusi, said making it to the Gala is the ultimate dream for many participants, as it recognizes excellence and hard work in performance.
The highlight of the festival will be the prestigious State Concert on 13th August, expected to be held at the Bungoma State Lodge, where top performers will showcase their winning pieces before senior government dignitaries, including the Head of State.
Bungoma County Music Official Pamela Waweri said the State Concert is the crown jewel of the festival.
“The State Concert crowns the very best performances and celebrates the incredible talents of Kenyan learners. Bungoma is honored to host this national event,” she said.
Participants are expected to depart on 14th August after the official closing.
Beyond talent development, the festival is projected to provide a major economic boost to Bungoma town and its environs. Supervisor Mark Opiyo said local businesses are already preparing for increased demand for accommodation, transport, food and hospitality services.
“Beyond the performances, the festival creates economic opportunities for the host county while nurturing the next generation of Kenyan artists,” Opiyo said.
The Ministry of Education reiterated its commitment to co-curricular activities as a key pillar of Competency-Based Education in building confidence, patriotism and creativity among learners.
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