The Kenya National Drama and Film Festival (KNDFF) has received a significant boost ahead of this year’s event, with Equity Bank Kenya contributing KES 25 million to support activities across the national, regional, county, and sub-county levels.
The sponsorship will go towards rewarding outstanding schools, trainers, and participants through certificates, trophies, and cash prizes, reinforcing the festival’s role in nurturing young creative talent in Kenya.
Festival Theme and National Event
This year’s festival runs under the theme:
“Liberating Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating Value for Social Prosperity.”
The national finals will take place in Nakuru in April, where top schools and individuals will showcase their creative works in drama, film, spoken word, and music.
Equity Bank’s Commitment to Talent Development
Speaking during the partnership launch at Muhuri Muchiri High School in Ruai, Nairobi, Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director, Moses Nyabanda, highlighted the importance of the festival in fostering self-expression, creativity, and societal transformation.
“This moment is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the immense potential that lies within our young people. At Equity Bank, we believe that education is the cornerstone of societal transformation. Over the years, our commitment to education has been unwavering. We have empowered thousands of students through scholarships, mentorship, and financial inclusion. Today, we extend our partnership further by supporting the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, a premier platform that nurtures creativity, talent, and self-expression.”
Equity Bank’s support aligns with three key pillars of its partnership with the Ministry of Education:
- Promoting Creativity and Talent Development – Celebrating the richness of Kenyan culture and the dynamic talents of young people.
- Monetizing Talent and Fostering Entrepreneurship – Helping creatives turn their passion into sustainable careers and businesses.
- Rewarding Excellence and Encouraging Best Performances – Sponsoring 16 Equity genres within the festival under the sub-theme:
“Transforming Lives, Giving Dignity, and Expanding Opportunities for Wealth Creation.”
Government Endorsement and Impact on Youth
The Ministry of Education’s Head of Directorate Field Coordination and Co-curricular Activities, Nelson Sifuna, emphasized the critical role of the festival in shaping young creatives into confident leaders and professionals. He noted that many renowned Kenyan personalities, including comedian Walter Nyambane Mongare, Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, and former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, started their journeys in the festival.
“While others prefer to sponsor at the national level, Equity Bank begins at the grassroots, a testament to their commitment. On behalf of the Ministry, I want to emphasize the importance of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival. These festivals identify and develop talent, instill confidence in our children, and cultivate leadership skills.”
Boosting the Arts Industry in Kenya
The Kenya National Drama and Film Festival has long served as a launchpad for young creatives, with many participants going on to influence the entertainment, media, and creative arts industries in Kenya.
With Equity Bank’s support, the festival is expected to reach more students, schools, and trainers, ensuring that the country continues to nurture and recognize creative excellence.
As the festival approaches, schools across the country are gearing up for various competitions leading to the national event in April. Top performances and winning productions will not only receive financial rewards but also gain national recognition.
Final Thoughts
The KES 25 million sponsorship from Equity Bank is a major boost for the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, reinforcing its legacy as a premier creative arts platform for young Kenyans. By investing in talent, rewarding excellence, and fostering entrepreneurship, the partnership is set to elevate the festival’s impact and encourage more youth to pursue careers in the arts.
With Nakuru set to host the national finals in April, all eyes are on emerging talent, innovative storytelling, and creative performances that will define this year’s festival.
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