Insidemythoughts
Friday, May 9, 2025
KNOW YOUR NEW POPE,LEO XIV
On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church entered a new chapter with the election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost. This historic event marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy, signaling a blend of continuity and change within the Church's leadership.
A Historic Election
The papal conclave, convened after the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, culminated in the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. The announcement was made from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, where Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti declared, "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!"
Pope Leo XIV's election is significant not only because he is the first American pope but also because he is the first member of the Augustinian order to hold the papacy. His selection reflects the Church's recognition of diverse experiences and perspectives within its hierarchy.
Background and Ministry
Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has a rich multicultural heritage, with French, Italian, and Spanish roots. His early ministry was marked by extensive missionary work in Peru, where he served for over two decades. This experience provided him with deep insights into the challenges faced by communities in Latin America and reinforced his commitment to social justice and pastoral care.
New York Post
Before his election, he held significant positions within the Church, including serving as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Wikipedia
Vision and Priorities
Pope Leo XIV has expressed a desire to continue the inclusive and socially conscious agenda of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His commitment to social justice, immigration reform, and advocacy for workers' rights aligns with the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, whom he honors through his chosen papal name.
WSJ
In his first address, he greeted the faithful with the words, "Peace be with all of you," signaling a papacy focused on unity and compassion.
Vatican News
Global Reactions
The election of Pope Leo XIV has been met with widespread acclaim. In the United States, celebrations erupted at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, where many gathered to mark the historic moment. In Gaza, the Christian community expressed hope that the new pope would prioritize peace in the region, continuing the efforts of Pope Francis.
Looking Ahead
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, the global Catholic community anticipates his leadership in addressing contemporary challenges while fostering unity within the Church. His unique background and commitment to social issues position him to guide the Church through a period of renewal and engagement with the broader world.
what are your thoughts on new pope..let us know in the comments section below ๐
Wednesday, May 7, 2025
FROM HERO TO VILLAIN,5 KENYAN PUBLIC FIGURES WHO FELL FROM GRACE
From Hero to Villain: 5 Kenyan Public Figures Who Fell From Grace
In the world of fame and influence, the line between being adored and being despised is razor-thin. One moment, a public figure can be basking in the glory of widespread love and admiration, and the next, they can find themselves at the center of controversy, scandal, and public outrage. Here, we explore five Kenyan public figures who went from hero to villain in the eyes of the public.
1. Mike Sonko - The Flashy Politician
Once a beloved Governor known for his street-smart persona and lavish lifestyle, Mike Sonko was the people's hero — a man who rose from humble beginnings to power. But behind the bling was a string of corruption charges that led to his impeachment. His downfall served as a warning against unchecked power and reckless spending.
2. Esther Arunga - From TV Darling to Crime Suspect
Esther Arunga was once the epitome of grace and elegance as a news anchor. She was the golden girl of Kenyan television. However, her involvement in a controversial religious cult and the tragic death of her son in Australia turned her life into a media circus, transforming her from a respected figure to a cautionary tale.
3. Miguna Miguna - From Defender of Justice to Unfiltered Critic
Miguna Miguna was once celebrated for his fiery critiques against corruption and impunity. He was the fearless lawyer who stood up to the establishment. But as his rhetoric became increasingly abrasive and controversial, his fan base began to dwindle. Today, he is as much criticized as he is praised, with many seeing him as a loudmouth rather than a voice of reason.
4. Jacque Maribe - The Fallen Star
Jacque Maribe had a dream career as a top TV journalist, covering major political events and interviewing influential leaders. But her alleged involvement in the murder of businesswoman Monica Kimani changed everything. The court case, intense media scrutiny, and public speculation cast a dark shadow over her once-bright career.
5. DJ Mo - From Gospel Icon to Cheating Allegations
DJ Mo was once a role model for young Kenyans, a successful gospel DJ married to a popular gospel singer. But when allegations of infidelity surfaced, his public image took a hit. The scandal not only affected his career but also his marriage, showing how quickly a public figure’s reputation can crumble.
When Heroes Fall
The stories of these five public figures are cautionary tales of how fame, power, and influence can be fleeting. In a world where the court of public opinion can be just as powerful as a court of law, one wrong move can turn a hero into a villain overnight.
Which other Kenyan public figures have fallen from grace? Let us know in the comments and keep the conversation going!
Monday, April 21, 2025
WORLD MOURNS POPE WHO DIES AT 88
The Pope is the bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is considered the spiritual successor to Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles and the first bishop of Rome. The Pope is also the head of the Vatican City State, which is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome.
Current Pope: As of now, the Pope is Pope Francis, who became pope in March 2013. He is the first pope from the Americas (Argentina) and the first Jesuit pope.
Role: The Pope is the highest authority in the Catholic Church. His duties include leading religious services, guiding Church doctrine, appointing bishops, and acting as a moral and spiritual guide for Catholics worldwide.
Election: Popes are elected by the College of Cardinals in a secret conclave held in the Sistine Chapel after the previous pope dies or resigns.
Influence: The Pope is an influential global figure, often involved in discussions on peace, human rights, climate change, and interfaith dialogue.
Want info on a specific pope, like Pope Francis or a historical one?
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, served as the 266th pope of the Catholic Church from March 13, 2013, until his death on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-
Early Life and Rise in the Church
Before entering the priesthood, Bergoglio worked as a janitor and chemical technician. He joined the Jesuit order in 1958 and was ordained a priest in 1969. He became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001 .
pope Francis in Nairobi Kenya
Papacy Highlights
Elected following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis chose his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, reflecting his commitment to humility and care for the poor. His papacy was marked by progressive stances, including:
Social Justice: Advocated for the marginalized, including migrants and the LGBTQ+ community.
Environmental Advocacy: Issued the encyclical Laudato Si’, calling for global action on climate change.
Church Reforms: Implemented financial and bureaucratic reforms within the Vatican.
Inclusivity: Appointed the first African American cardinal from the U.S. and supported increased roles for women in the Church .
Despite his progressive approach, he faced criticism from conservative factions within the Church, particularly regarding his openness to same-sex blessings and his handling of clerical sexual abuse cases .
Death and Legacy
Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, due to a stroke and irreversible heart failure . His death marked the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, characterized by efforts to modernize and promote compassion and inclusivity. A conclave will be convened to elect his successor.
Friday, April 18, 2025
How to Register for Kenya's Social Health Authority (SHA) in 2025: Full Guide for Individuals and Families"
Thursday, April 17, 2025
ARSENAL MAKES IT THROUGH TO SEMIS!!
The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals concluded yesterday, April 16, 2025, delivering high-stakes drama and setting the stage for an electrifying semi-final lineup. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the decisive second-leg encounters:
⚽ Quarter-Final Results – April 16, 2025
๐ฎ๐น Inter Milan 2–2 ๐ฉ๐ช Bayern Munich (Aggregate: 4–3)
At the San Siro, Inter Milan secured their semi-final spot after a thrilling 2–2 draw against Bayern Munich, advancing 4–3 on aggregate. Harry Kane gave Bayern an early lead, but Inter responded swiftly with goals from Lautaro Martรญnez and Benjamin Pavard. Eric Dier's late header leveled the match, but Bayern couldn't overturn the deficit. Inter's tactical discipline and efficiency in the final third were pivotal in their progression.
Bavarian Football Works
๐ช๐ธ Real Madrid 1–2 ๐ฌ๐ง Arsenal (Aggregate: 1–5)
Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabรฉu, defeating Real Madrid 2–1 and securing a 5–1 aggregate victory. Despite Bukayo Saka missing a penalty, he redeemed himself with a stunning goal, and Gabriel Martinelli sealed the win in stoppage time. Arsenal's airtight defense and tactical organization stifled Madrid's offense, marking a significant milestone in Mikel Arteta’s tenure.
๐ซ๐ท Paris Saint-Germain 2–3 ๐ฌ๐ง Aston Villa (Aggregate: 4–4; PSG advances on away goals)
In a high-octane clash, PSG edged past Aston Villa on away goals after a 4–4 aggregate draw. Despite losing the second leg 2–3, PSG's performance in the first leg ensured their progression. The match was marked by relentless attacking play and showcased PSG's resilience under pressure.
๐ช๐ธ Barcelona 1–2 ๐ฉ๐ช Borussia Dortmund (Aggregate: 5–4)
Barcelona advanced to the semi-finals despite a 1–2 home defeat to Borussia Dortmund, thanks to their 4–2 first-leg advantage. Dortmund's spirited performance wasn't enough to overturn the deficit, and Barcelona's earlier dominance proved decisive.
๐ฎ Semi-Final Matchups
Arsenal vs. Paris Saint-Germain
Inter Milan vs. Barcelona
The semi-finals promise enthralling contests, with Arsenal set to face PSG and Inter Milan taking on Barcelona. These matchups will determine who advances to the final, scheduled for May 31, 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Champions League drama unfolds!
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Drama Festival State Concert 2025: A Spectacle of Talent, Triumphs, and Tears
---
Drama Festival State Concert 2025: A Spectacle of Talent, Triumphs, and Tears
The curtains fell in spectacular fashion at the 2025 National Drama and Film Festival State Concert held today at the Kenya National Theatre, showcasing the very best of artistic brilliance from schools across the country. The festival brought together regional champions who had battled their way through zonal, county, and regional competitions to earn a coveted spot on the national stage.
Schools That Lit Up the Stage
From heartwarming narratives to hard-hitting societal themes, the performances captivated the audience from start to finish. Among the standout performances were:
Kapsabet Boys High School, whose witty satirical play "Broken Chains" tackled the topic of corruption in county governments. Their well-choreographed scenes and sharp dialogue earned them a standing ovation.
Ng’iya Girls High School delivered an emotional piece, "The Silenced Song", focusing on gender-based violence and the struggle for justice. Their storytelling and synchronized movement struck a deep chord with the audience.
Ruthimitu Mixed Secondary School thrilled the crowd with their inventive mime performance, "Whispers of the Wall", a story told entirely through expressions and sound effects. It was a clear favorite among the judges.
Alliance High School presented a powerful choral verse titled "Echoes of the Land", which celebrated Kenya's diverse cultures and called for national unity.
Each of these schools had emerged victorious at the zonal, county, and regional levels. It was no easy feat, with over 6,000 schools participating in this year’s festival. They faced intense competition and rigorous scrutiny by adjudicators throughout the journey.
Ng’iya Girls had to outshine the likes of Butere Girls at the regional level.
Kapsabet Boys dominated the Rift Valley region with back-to-back wins.
Ruthimitu Mixed surprised many by beating traditional powerhouses in Nairobi Region.
Runners-Up and Notable Mentions
This year’s runners-up included:
Butula Boys, whose modern dance piece wowed the crowd with its energy and precision.
Moi Forces Academy Lanet, known for their stirring dramatized poem on climate change.
St. Mary’s Lwak Girls, who presented a contemporary play themed around online addiction and teenage identity.
Butere Girls’ Shocking Exit
Butere girls failed to defend their title this year after encountring a series of challenges at the national level,their play "ECHOES OF WAR failed to be performed because it was anticipated that it was embarrassing some people in the government.The police were available on the day of their performance made it harder for them to perform as they were asked to perform without decors soundtracks and costumes,this followed after their director and writer Cleophas Malala was arrested the previous day.The girls only sang the national anthem and exited the stage.
The President’s Speech: A Call for Creative Empowerment
President William Ruto, who graced the State Concert as the chief guest, praised the incredible talent displayed by Kenyan students. In his closing remarks, he said:
> "Today, we have not just witnessed entertainment; we have seen the heartbeat of our nation in these performances. Drama and film are powerful tools for shaping minds and addressing social issues. My government will continue to support creative arts in schools and ensure more funding for co-curricular activities. To every student here today—you are the future storytellers of Kenya. Keep dreaming. Keep creating."
He also announced the launch of a new National Creative Arts Fund to support school-based theatre and film projects, drawing applause from the entire auditorium.
---
The 2025 Drama Festival State Concert was not just a competition—it was a celebration of voices, vision, and the vibrant spirit of Kenyan youth. As the actors took their final bows and the curtains closed, one thing was clear: the future of Kenyan theatre is dazzlingly bright.
what are your thoughts on this year's drama fest?
let us know as we wait for music festivals
follow as for more updates
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Drama Festival 2025: Mukuuni & Buruburu Girls Steal the Show in Nakuru!
The 92nd Kenya National Drama and Film Festival concluded today, April 15, 2025, in Nakuru, marking a vibrant celebration of youth creativity and storytelling. This year's theme, "Liberating Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating Value for Social Prosperity," inspired performances that tackled contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence, femicide, and livestock vaccination debates
๐ Top Performers and Winning Schools
1. Mukuuni High School (Eastern Region)
In a surprising turn, Mukuuni High School clinched the top spot in the play category with their production Player N. The play narrates the story of Jabali, a boy from a bandit-prone area whose football talent is nurtured by a dedicated coach, inspiring community transformation
.
2. Moi Nairobi Girls Secondary School
Their choral verse Angela, produced by Margaret Njaga and directed by Mwalawati Amondo, earned them top honors. The piece tells the poignant tale of a house girl who overcomes negative influences during school vacations, highlighting themes of resilience and self-determination .
3. Buruburu Girls Secondary School
Dominating the traditional dance category, Buruburu Girls' performance Jalupo won accolades for best soloist (Mercy Deborah), choreography, costumes, and decor. The dance showcased rich cultural narratives with exceptional artistry .
4. Migosi Primary School (Kisumu)
Successfully defending their title, Migosi Primary impressed with their cultural creative dance Otonglo, reflecting the school's commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage .
5. Kangaru School
As hosts, Kangaru School excelled in the modern creative dance category, securing first place with a performance that combined innovative choreography and compelling storytelling. They were followed by Kodero Bara and Tumaini School in second and third places, respectively .
๐ญ Notable Moments and Highlights
Emerging Themes: This year's festival saw a surge in performances addressing pressing societal issues. Students boldly explored topics like artificial intelligence, gender-based violence, and public health concerns, demonstrating a deep engagement with current affairs .
Increased Participation: The festival witnessed a significant rise in participation, with over 23,000 students involved, up from 15,000 the previous year. This growth underscores the festival's expanding influence and the increasing interest in performing arts among Kenyan youth .
Sponsorship and Support: Equity Bank's substantial sponsorship of Ksh. 25 million played a pivotal role in the festival's success. The funds facilitated rewards for outstanding performances and supported various competition levels, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent .
๐ฌ Film and Documentary Showcase
The festival's film segment featured compelling entries, including Kiamwangi Day Secondary School's movie The Ultimate Move and documentary Taming Road Carnage. These works highlighted the students' storytelling prowess and technical skills, contributing to the festival's diverse artistic expressions .
Nation
๐ Looking Ahead
The festival's culmination sets the stage for a state concert later this week, where President William Ruto is expected to honor the winners. This recognition not only celebrates the students' achievements but also reinforces the festival's role in shaping Kenya's cultural and creative landscape .
For a visual glimpse into the festival's vibrant performances and moments,
.
---
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
KNOW YOUR NEW POPE,LEO XIV
On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church entered a new chapter with the election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost. This historic...
-
The 63rd edition of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival commenced today in Nakuru County, marking the beginning of a vibrant celeb...
-
photo NM(in photo Jannet Ayatta) Drama Festival Day Two Update – Nakuru, April 8, 2025 Day two of the Kenya National Drama and Film F...
-
The Uncomfortable Truth About Echoes of War – A Critical Look at Butere Girls’ Bold Drama When Butere Girls High School staged Echoes ...















