BUNGOMA– President William Ruto on Thursday hosted the 98th Kenya Music Festival State Concert at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in Bungoma County, bringing together top performers from across the country.
The Head of State was joined by First Lady Rachel Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet Secretaries, governors, MPs and thousands of Kenyans who thronged the university grounds to witness the cultural extravaganza. The State Concert is the climax of the Kenya Music Festival and showcases the best choirs, soloists, traditional dancers and instrumentalists selected from regional competitions.
Speaking at the event, President Ruto praised the festival for promoting Kenya’s diverse cultures and nurturing talent among the youth. He said music, dance and drama play a key role in uniting Kenyans and preserving national heritage. The President also announced increased government funding for the arts and promised more support for music festivals in schools and colleges.
First Lady Rachel Ruto performed alongside a gospel choir and received cheers from the crowd. Several counties staged colorful performances featuring traditional attire, instruments and dances that celebrate Kenya’s 42 communities. Bungoma residents turned up in large numbers to support the event, with many describing it as a proud moment for Western Kenya.
The 98th edition of the Kenya Music Festival has been running for weeks with participants from primary schools, secondary schools, tertiary institutions and special schools. Organizers said this year’s theme focused on national unity, patriotism and talent development.
The State Concert in Bungoma is part of the government’s efforts to take national events to the counties and promote tourism and local economies. Leaders present said hosting the concert in Western Kenya will boost Bungoma’s profile and create business opportunities for traders and artists.
Photos from the event showed President Ruto dancing, clapping and interacting with performers. The President later awarded trophies and certificates to winners and urged Kenyans to support local talent.
President William Ruto hosts 98th Kenya Music Festival State Concert in Bungoma. See photos, performances and highlights from the national event at MMUST.