PHOTOS: Ruto, Kindiki join guests at 97th Kenya Music Festival in Nyeri
President William Ruto, his spouse Mama Rachel Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and several senior government and political officials on Saturday, August 16, 2025, joined thousands of Kenyans at Sagana State Lodge in Nyeri for the 97th Kenya Music Festival State Concert.
The colourful occasion drew participants from across the country, with students, teachers, and cultural groups filling the venue with song, dance, and drama.
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The festival, an annual highlight in Kenya’s cultural calendar, provides a national platform to celebrate the country’s diverse heritage while nurturing talent among the youth.
From traditional rhythms to modern artistic expressions, performers displayed the depth of creativity and unity that music and the arts bring to society.
Promoting arts and education
Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok praised the President and First Lady for sparing time to attend the event, saying their presence highlighted the government’s support for culture and education.
“Our Excellency wants to thank you for finding time in your busy schedule to come and grace this great event (97th Kenya Music Festival concert), which is very important in our ministry.
As we plan for the transition in 3 pathways in CBE, music will come strongly under the arts. This will promote the creative economy,” Bitok said.
He further appealed to lawmakers to prioritise additional resources for the education sector.
“We also urge our MPs to prioritise increasing the budget for our ministry so that we can improve on various areas, e.g., monetisation and ultra-modern digital tools,” he added, noting that investing in arts and digital platforms would unlock opportunities for thousands of young people.
Celebration of unity, heritage
The event was marked by vibrant performances reflecting Kenya’s regional diversity and cultural pride. Guests were treated to melodies from school choirs, dramatised narratives, and instrumental ensembles that captured both tradition and innovation.
Officials at the concert underscored the role of the arts in building social cohesion and nurturing a sense of belonging among the youth.
Many noted that the festival was not just an artistic showcase but also a vital educational tool that inspires discipline, teamwork, and creativity.
As the 97th edition came to a close, the mood was celebratory, with participants and leaders alike affirming the place of music and arts at the heart of Kenya’s cultural and economic future.
