Eight primary schools in Kiambu Constituency have showcased their musical talents at a schools band competition aimed at strengthening co curricular activities and promoting the development of well-rounded learners under the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC).
The competition brought together learners from eight schools, providing a platform for them to demonstrate their musical abilities, creativity, discipline and teamwork while competing for top honours.
Benson Njau Primary School emerged the overall winner, followed by Kiambu Primary School in second place, while Gichocho Primary School finished third in the contest.
The other participating institutions were Kangoya Primary School, Mary Immaculate Kiamumbi Primary School, Riara Primary School, Ndumberi Primary School and Mungai Chengecha Primary School.
The initiative, championed by Kiambu MP Machua Waithaka, seeks to expand opportunities for learners to explore their talents beyond classroom instruction, with music and the performing arts providing an avenue for creativity, self expression and personal development.
Waithaka expressed gratitude to the United States based Giving Exchange Foundation for donating musical band equipment to the eight schools in partnership with Morning Star Ministries, based in Gichocho, Riabai Ward.
He singled out the foundation’s contribution as an important investment in the development of young talent, noting that sustained partnerships between community organisations and education stakeholders could help schools strengthen their co curricula programmes.
The partnership was facilitated through Morning Star Ministries, under the leadership of its director, Madam Reah Nderitu.
The MP said the collaboration had demonstrated the value of bringing together local institutions and international partners to support learners, adding that he hoped to strengthen the relationship for the benefit of more children in the constituency.
The donation of musical equipment is expected to provide learners with improved opportunities to practise, develop their skills and participate in organised school band activities.
Under the Competency Based Curriculum, education extends beyond academic performance to the identification and nurturing of individual abilities. Music and the performing arts can help learners develop confidence, communication, collaboration, creativity and discipline skills that are important both in school and later in life.
The competition provided an opportunity for the schools to demonstrate their progress while encouraging healthy competition and cooperation among learners and their trainers.
All participating learners received certificates of participation in recognition of their involvement, while each school was presented with a uniform to support its continued engagement in musical activities.
Special recognition was also given to Mr Mambo, a former Kenya Defence Forces officer who has dedicated his time and expertise to training the participating school bands.
His commitment to coaching the learners has been central to the initiative, with the MP praising his willingness to invest his energy and experience in helping children discover and develop their abilities.
Waithaka expressed appreciation for Mambo’s dedication, describing his contribution as an example of the role individuals can play in nurturing young people and strengthening school based talent development.
The competition comes amid growing recognition of the importance of co curricular activities in helping learners acquire practical and social skills that complement classroom education.
For the participating schools, continued access to musical instruments, uniforms and professional guidance could help sustain interest in music while creating opportunities for learners to participate in future competitions and performances.
Waithaka said his leadership remained committed to supporting initiatives that identify, nurture and promote the abilities of young people across the constituency.
He maintained that investing in learners’ talents was part of a broader effort to prepare children for the future by equipping them with skills and experiences that extend beyond examinations.
The MP reiterated his commitment to supporting co curricular activities and creating an environment in which learners can pursue their interests, build confidence and develop their potential.
“Yangu Ni Kazi Tu,” he said, reaffirming his focus on development and service to the constituency.
The initiative highlights the potential of partnerships between schools, community organisations and international donors in expanding educational opportunities and ensuring that learners have platforms to develop their talents alongside academic learning.
