THE ARREST OF MALALA AS ECHOES OF WAR SETS TO HIT THE STAGE!

On April 9, 2025, the third day of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru showcased a variety of captivating performances from schools across the country. The festival, themed "Liberating Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating Value for Social Prosperity," featured outstanding presentations in various categories. **Play Category:** - **Mukuuni High School** from Eastern Province delivered an exceptional performance with their play "Player N," which narrates the story of Jabali, a young boy in a bandit-prone area whose talent is nurtured by a dedicated coach. Their compelling portrayal earned them the top position in this category. citeturn0search1 - **Friends School Kamusinga** secured second place with their play "Pressure," while **Shimo La Tewa** took third position, both showcasing remarkable talent and creativity. citeturn0search1 **Cultural Creative Dance:** - **Buruburu Girls** from Nairobi captivated the audience with their traditional dance "Jalupo," under the direction of Patrick Ngere. The performance was lauded for its choreography, costumes, and overall presentation, earning them first place. citeturn0search1 - **Shadrack Kimale Secondary School** and **Kivaywa High School** secured second and third places, respectively, with their impressive dance routines. citeturn0search1 **Choral Verse:** - **Moi Nairobi Girls Secondary** delivered a powerful choral verse titled "Angela," produced by Margaret Njaga. The piece explores the challenges faced by a house girl during school vacations and was praised for its emotive delivery, securing them the top spot in this category. citeturn0search1 - **Bungoma High School** from Western region earned second place with their compelling performance. citeturn0search1 **Modern Creative Dance:** - **Kangaru School** emerged victorious in the modern creative dance category, showcasing innovative choreography and thematic expression. citeturn0search1 - **Kodero Bara** and **Tumaini School** secured second and third places, respectively, with their dynamic performances. citeturn0search1 The festival continues to serve as a platform for students to exhibit their artistic talents, addressing pertinent societal issues through creative expression. The performances on Day 3 highlighted the depth of talent present in Kenyan schools and the importance of nurturing these abilities for cultural and social development. TOMORROW'S PROGRAMM

BUTERE GIRLS playwright was tried to be arrested on the evening of 9th april.This is because if the controversial play "echoes of war" after failing to arrest him they have avoided him to leave the site.this are the efforts put by the government to prevent the play from being performed, however people have vowed to sleep on the hall as to wait to watch the controversial play.

The Kenya National Drama and Film Festival, currently underway in Nakuru County, has been marked by anticipation and controversy surrounding the play "Echoes of War" by Butere Girls High School. This production, written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, delves into the struggles faced by young people globally, resonating with contemporary societal issues. **Controversy and Legal Intervention** Prior to the festival, "Echoes of War" faced removal from the competition lineup. The school's principal, Jennipher Omondi, reportedly sent 50 drama students home, allegedly following directives from higher authorities. This decision led to legal action initiated by Anifa Mango, a former student and passionate thespian from Kisii County. The High Court intervened, ordering the reinstatement of the drama team and mandating their participation in the national festival. citeturn0search0 **Historical Context** This incident echoes a similar situation in 2013 when Butere Girls' play "Shackles of Doom," also authored by Malala, was initially banned due to its themes on ethnicity and inequality. The High Court later lifted the ban, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression in artistic endeavors. citeturn0search18 **Anticipation for the Performance** With the legal hurdles addressed, "Echoes of War" is scheduled for performance tomorrow at the Nakuru festival. The play's reinstatement has heightened anticipation, drawing attention from festival attendees and the broader public. Given the school's history of delivering impactful and thought-provoking performances, audiences are eager to witness how "Echoes of War" will address pertinent societal themes. The festival continues to serve as a platform for students to explore and express complex issues through the arts, with "Echoes of War" standing as a testament to the resilience and dedication of Butere Girls High School's drama team.