Margaret Kenyatta calls for more investment in youth through arts and music
Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has today called for increased investment in young people through arts and music, saying creative programmes such as Ghetto Classics continue to play a powerful role in transforming lives and strengthening communities across Kenya.
Speaking on Saturday, June 6, 2026, during the Ghetto Classics Charity Golf Tournament held at Migaa Golf Club in Kiambu County, Margaret said the initiative has evolved into a strong movement that is changing the lives of vulnerable youth through structured music education, mentorship and social support.
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She noted that the programme, which has been running for 18 years, has demonstrated how talent development can open opportunities for young people who would otherwise be excluded from such pathways.
“What began as a bold vision has grown into a movement that continues to transform the lives of young people, families, and communities,” she said.
Mrs Kenyatta described Ghetto Classics as more than just a music programme, saying it has become a story of hope, discipline and transformation for thousands of young people in underserved communities.
She said the initiative has grown from a bold vision into a structured empowerment platform that continues to impact not only individuals, but also families and entire communities.
According to her, music has proven to be a powerful tool in shaping character, building confidence and giving young people a sense of purpose and direction in life.
“Ghetto Classics is not simply a music programme. It is a story of hope, discipline, courage, and transformation,” she said. “It uses the power of music to change lives, especially for young people living in underprivileged communities,” she added.
The former First Lady revealed that the Art of Music Foundation, through Ghetto Classics, currently supports more than 1,500 young people across the country.
She explained that the support goes beyond music training and includes scholarships, mentorship, food assistance, provision of instruments and broader welfare interventions that also benefit families.
She said these efforts have created structured opportunities for children and youth in underserved areas, enabling them to pursue both education and artistic development.
“Music opens doors for our children that they would not ordinarily walk through. At the end of the day, we are going to change Kenya through music,” she said.
She also highlighted the success of programme beneficiaries, noting that many have gone on to perform on national and international stages, while others have secured scholarships abroad.
Some of the graduates, she added, have returned to the programme to mentor younger learners, creating a cycle of growth and community impact.
Margreat said these outcomes reflect the importance of sustained investment in youth development through the arts.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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