Title: Realistic Ways to Stop Gambling: Break Free and Take Back Control Gambling promises excitement and hope, but for many, it becomes a destructive addiction that drains finances, affects relationships, and damages mental well-being. As highlighted in the screenshot shared, gambling manipulates your brain's dopamine system—the same reward system responsible for feelings of pleasure. Each win boosts dopamine, making you crave the next thrill even when losses pile up. Fortunately, breaking free from gambling is possible. Here are realistic steps you can take to stop gambling and reclaim your life: 1. Understand the Science Behind the Urge Gambling triggers a dopamine release in the brain. The occasional win acts as a "reward," reinforcing behavior and leading to addiction. Once you understand that it's not just about money but a chemical reaction, you'll realize that quitting gambling also means rebalancing your brain's reward system. 2. Deregister from Betting Platforms Contact the gambling sites you use and request self-exclusion or deregistration. Most reputable platforms offer this feature and will block your access for a set period or permanently. 3. Avoid Triggers Stay away from anything that might trigger the urge to gamble. This includes: Sports betting ads and gambling promotions Football matches or gaming streams if they tempt you Friends or environments where gambling is encouraged Unsubscribe from gambling newsletters and block gambling-related content online using website blockers like Cold Turkey or StayFocusd. 4. Replace the Habit with Healthy Alternatives You’re not just trying to quit gambling—you’re trying to replace it. Fill the void with activities that give you purpose and enjoyment, such as: Exercising or joining a sports club Picking up a hobby like painting, reading, or music Volunteering or helping others These create natural dopamine boosts without the risk of addiction. 5. Switch to a Basic Phone As humorously but seriously suggested in the image—switching to a simple phone (referred to as “gatururu” in the image) can help. A phone that doesn’t access the internet limits your exposure to gambling apps and ads. 6. Seek Professional Support Gambling addiction is serious. Talking to a counselor or joining a support group like Gamblers Anonymous can make a huge difference. Therapy options such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are proven to help rewire compulsive behavior. 7. Track Your Finances Closely Take control of your money by: Handing over financial responsibility to a trusted friend or family member for a while Setting strict budgets Avoiding credit cards or quick-access loans When you monitor your spending, you're more aware of how much gambling costs you—not just in money, but in missed opportunities. 8. Celebrate Small Wins Every day you go without gambling is a win. Keep a journal to track your progress. Celebrate milestones—1 day, 1 week, 1 month—with a healthy reward. Conclusion: The First Step is the Hardest The journey to quit gambling starts with one honest step: admitting the problem. But with realistic strategies, a support system, and a strong reason “why,” you can regain control and build a life of true freedom—not one tied to false hopes and fleeting thrills. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait. Help is out there, and recovery is possible.

DAY TWO "Explosive Performances in Nakuru: Schools Tackle Tribalism, Corruption & JSS Chaos"

photo NM(in photo Jannet Ayatta) Drama Festival Day Two Update – Nakuru, April 8, 2025 Day two of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru County was a thrilling blend of talent, storytelling, and cultural expression. Opening Ceremony: The festival was officially inaugurated by Education Principal Secretary Amb. Belio Kipsang, who encouraged learners to embrace the arts as a tool for national cohesion, innovation, and identity. He emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to integrating creative arts into the education system. Performances that Stood Out: Kaaga Girls High School (Meru): Their play "Doors to Perception" tackled inter-tribal marriages and their role in fostering peace and understanding across communities. Kimilili Boys High School: Staged a powerful Kiswahili play "Kuku Mla Watu", portraying the emotional toll on families of officers in conflict-prone regions. Dzitsoni Secondary School (Coast): Presented the humorous and thought-provoking narrative "Mapochopocho", critiquing corruption and promoting meritocracy in public service. Most Entertaining & Exciting Item: A crowd-favorite was Janet Ayatta from Kericho Primary School, whose solo dramatized verse boldly addressed the uncertainty surrounding Junior Secondary School placement after Grade 9. Her passionate performance earned a standing ovation and praise from the adjudicators. --- HERE'S TOMORROW'S LINEUP

--- Have a glance at the shots captured!

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Let me know in the comments section below what is your favourite team!

Kenya National Drama Festival 2025 Kicks Off in Nakuru: Full Highlights & Schedule!

​The 63rd edition of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival commenced today in Nakuru County, marking the beginning of a vibrant celebration of creativity and storytelling. The opening ceremony took place at Melvin Jones Hall, one of the festival's primary venues, alongside Lion School and Menengai High School. ​ Nation The festival was officially inaugurated by Prof. Charles Ong'ondo, the Director/CEO of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD). In his keynote address, Prof. Ong'ondo unpacked the 2025 theme, emphasizing the integration of technology in nurturing talent and instilling values for social prosperity. ​ University of Embu The opening day featured a series of captivating performances that set a high standard for the days to follow. Alliance High School presented a French play titled "Eugenie et Genevieve," exploring familial conflicts over career choices. Additionally, Migingo Girls Secondary School performed their play "Behind the Scenes," delving into the challenges faced by individuals behind public personas. ​ Nation This year's festival, themed "Liberating Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating Value for Social Prosperity," aims to highlight the role of technological advancements in the arts. The event has garnered significant support, notably a KES 25 million sponsorship from Equity Bank. This contribution is intended to reward outstanding schools and trainers through certificates, trophies, and cash prizes, further motivating participants to excel in their artistic endeavors. ​

Scheduled to run from April 7th to 18th, the festival promises a diverse array of performances from schools and colleges nationwide. Attendees can look forward to a showcase of talent that not only entertains but also addresses pertinent social issues, reflecting the transformative power of drama and film in society. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights as the festival unfolds, celebrating the rich tapestry of Kenyan culture and the boundless creativity of its youth. The 63rd edition of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival commenced today in Nakuru County, showcasing a diverse array of performances from various schools. The festival, themed "Leveraging Technology to Nurture Talent While Inculcating National Values for Socio-Economic Prosperity," aims to highlight the integration of technology in the arts. citeturn0search10 **Notable Performances on Day One:** - **Alliance High School**: Presented a French play titled *"Eugenie et Genevieve,"* which delves into a father's struggle to influence his children's career choices, contrasting parental expectations with individual aspirations. citeturn0search0 - **Migingo Girls Secondary School**: Performed *"Behind the Scenes,"* a play that explores the challenges individuals face behind their public personas, shedding light on personal struggles often hidden from view. citeturn0search0 - **Kaaga Girls High School**: Staged a Kiswahili play focusing on the complexities of parenting, offering insights into familial relationships and societal expectations. citeturn0search1 - **Moi Girls School Nairobi**: Delivered two pieces: - A choral verse titled *"Wambo,"* emphasizing the importance of balancing co-curricular activities with academic pursuits to foster well-rounded development. - A solo verse, *"Toilet Walls,"* addressing the mental trauma and insecurities that can lead to bullying, advocating for open communication and seeking help when needed. - **Mkunumbi Secondary School**: From Lamu West, presented a solo verse titled *"The Whispering Pod,"* highlighting the responsible use of mobile phones in educational settings and the potential pitfalls of technology misuse. - **Ramba School**: Performed a choral verse, *"Yitafunguka,"* depicting a community's evolving attitude towards education and the transformative power of knowledge. - **Kitengela International Schools**: Presented *"Sherehe,"* a choral verse addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, advocating for inclusivity and understanding. The opening ceremony was graced by Prof. Julius Bitok, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education, who lauded the festival's diversity and inclusivity. He encouraged young creatives to produce positive content and utilize technology responsibly in their artistic endeavors. As the festival progresses, attendees can anticipate a rich tapestry of performances that not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change, reflecting the vibrant cultural landscape of Kenya. The play "Echoes of War" by Butere Girls High School has garnered significant attention in the lead-up to the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival. Initially, the play was excluded from the Western Regional winners' gala, raising concerns among stakeholders. However, Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has since confirmed that the issues leading to its removal have been resolved, and the play has been reinstated for performance at the national festival in Nakuru. "Echoes of War," written by former Kakamega senator Cleophas Malalah, delves into themes of governance, technology, and social justice. Set in the fictional Royal Velvet Emirates, it portrays a nation emerging from civil war, with young individuals spearheading efforts to rebuild institutions and advocate for improved healthcare, education, and justice systems. The protagonist, Mustafa, a final-year IT student, develops 'Telemedicine,' a software connecting patients to doctors globally. His involvement in political discussions about the past war, particularly on social media, brings him into conflict with the ruling authorities. Another character, Anifa Imana, represents an artificial intelligence system, highlighting both the benefits and dangers of technology in modern governance.

The performance of "Echoes of War" is scheduled for April 10, 2025, during the ongoing festival in Nakuru County. This year's festival, running from April 7th to 18th, promises a rich tapestry of performances that not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change, reflecting the vibrant cultural landscape of Kenya.

High Court Reinstates Butere Girls' Drama Team to Nationals After 'Echoes of War' Ban"

Butere Girls Drama Team Makes Triumphant Comeback After Controversial Ban – Court Overrules State

​The High Court has directed Butere Girls High School to reinstate its drama team and facilitate their participation in the National Drama Festivals, scheduled to commence on April 7, 2025, in Nakuru County. This ruling follows the school's initial decision to send the 50 drama students home, reportedly after receiving directives from State House to bar their play, Echoes of War, from the competon. The play, which highlights the struggles of young people globally, was allegedly deemed potentially embarrassing to First Lady Rachael Ruto, an alumna of the school. ​ The court's intervention ensures that the students can showcase their performance at the national level. Justice Fridah Okwany ordered the school principal to recall the students and facilitate their participation in the festival. ​ This incident mirrors a similar situation in 2013 when Butere Girls' play, Shackles of Doom, faced a ban due to its themes on resource allocation and nepotism. The High Court lifted the ban, allowing the play to be performed at the national festival, where it received a standing ovation. ​ With the recent court ruling, Echoes of War is set to be performed at the upcoming National Drama Festivals, allowing the students to present their work on a national platform.

MANU PRINSIPAL VS VICKY BRILLIANCE!

Here's an overview of Vicky Brilliance's background, achievements, notable projects, and latest works: Vicky Brilliance Background: Born in 2001 in Mengit Village, Bomet County, Kenya, Vicky Cherotich, popularly known as Vicky Brilliance, is a prominent Kalenjin musician. She gained widespread recognition in 2021 with her hit song "Motiwe (Don't Go)." Achievements and Awards: At the Kalenjin Music Festival Awards on December 27, 2024, Vicky secured multiple accolades, including Best Overall Secular Artist, Best Female Artist, and Second Best Song for "Wababa." Notable Projects: "Wababa": This viral song amassed over 2.4 million views on YouTube, solidifying her status in the Kenyan music scene. "Motiwe (Don't Go)": Her breakout hit in 2021 that brought her into the limelight. Latest Project: Vicky's recent release, "Omisenin (I Miss You)", continues to showcase her musical prowess and emotional depth.

Here's an overview of Manu Prinsipal, highlighting his musical journey, achievements, and latest projects: Background: Stage Name: Manu Prinsipal Real Name: Not publicly disclosed Origin: Kenya Profession: Recording and performing artist, choreographer, and event organizer Manu Prinsipal is a Kenyan artist known for his dynamic performances and contributions to the East African music scene. He is affiliated with the Exodus Dancers Eldy, showcasing his skills in choreography and event organization. Musical Journey: Manu began his music career with the release of his debut song "Heaven." This was followed by "Nimuabudu," a track that gained significant attention and showcased his versatility as an artist. Achievements and Awards: In 2022, Manu Prinsipal's song "Nimuabudu" was nominated for the FEMA Awards Kenya in the category of Best Dance Song of the Year. He expressed his gratitude and excitement about the nomination through his social media platforms. Notable Projects: "Nimuabudu": This track stands out as one of Manu's most recognized works, earning him a nomination at the FEMA Awards Kenya. The song's energetic beats and danceable rhythm contributed to its popularity. Latest Projects: While specific details about his most recent releases are limited, Manu Prinsipal continues to be active in the music industry. Fans can stay updated on his latest works and upcoming projects by following his official social media pages let us know what you think in comments below 👇!

The Uncomfortable Truth About Echoes of War – A Critical Look at Butere Girls’ Bold Drama

The Uncomfortable Truth About Echoes of War – A Critical Look at Butere Girls’ Bold Drama When Butere Girls High School staged Echoes of War, the play was met with thunderous applause and admiration. It was hailed as a masterpiece, a theatrical triumph that captured the pain, chaos, and consequences of war. But beneath the accolades and standing ovations lies an uncomfortable truth that few dare to confront: Echoes of War is a play that stirs controversy, not just for its themes, but for the questions it raises about how we portray history, trauma, and national identity. The Glorification of Suffering? One of the most troubling aspects of Echoes of War is its intense portrayal of suffering. While war is indeed horrific, does the play border on glorifying pain and trauma? Some critics argue that by dramatizing war so vividly, it risks desensitizing audiences or, worse, romanticizing struggle. Should a school play—performed by young students—really immerse itself so deeply in the dark abyss of war without offering a more hopeful or constructive narrative? Whose History is it Telling? Another contentious issue is the play’s historical accuracy and perspective. While Echoes of War attempts to tell a universal story about the horrors of conflict, it inevitably reflects the biases and interpretations of its creators. Does the play give an authentic representation of historical events, or does it manipulate them for dramatic effect? Some argue that by simplifying complex political conflicts into digestible theatrical moments, it risks distorting the truth. The Ethical Dilemma: Exploiting Young Performers? It is undeniable that Butere Girls’ students delivered a stellar performance, but at what cost? Some educators and psychologists worry about the psychological impact of making young girls embody roles of suffering, violence, and loss. Can we justify exposing students to such harrowing narratives in the name of art? Are these young minds truly capable of processing the deep emotional weight of war, or are they merely reciting lines without fully grasping their significance? The Political Undertones – A Hidden Agenda? Many have praised Echoes of War for its raw emotional power, but some critics suspect an underlying political message. In Kenya, where history and politics are deeply intertwined, could the play be subtly pushing a particular ideological viewpoint? Is it meant to educate or to sway public opinion? If a play becomes a tool for shaping national consciousness, should it be subject to stricter scrutiny? Both Echoes of War and Shackles of Doom, the plays performed by Butere Girls High School, were written by Cleophas Malalah. Malalah is a Kenyan playwright and politician who has served as a Member of County Assembly (MCA) and as a senator. His works often delve into pressing societal issues, which has sometimes led to controversy. For instance, Shackles of Doom was banned by the Ministry of Education in 2013 due to its themes on ethnic favoritism and resource distribution, though the ban was later overturned by the High Court. Similarly, Echoes of War was removed from the Western Regional Drama Festival winners' gala in 2025, raising questions about censorship in school drama festivals. Cleophas Malalah, the playwright of Echoes of War, has expressed disappointment over the play's removal from the Western Regional winners' gala. He commented on the ongoing struggle between truth and falsehood, suggesting that society often favors comfortable lies over confronting harsh realities. This sentiment was highlighted in a post by The Standard, which quoted Malalah: > "There's great battle between the truth and lies. The mind is comfortable with lies hence the removal of Echoes of war from winners gala." This statement underscores Malalah's belief that the play's elimination reflects a broader societal reluctance to face uncomfortable truths. A Pattern of Controversy – Shackles of Doom This is not the first time Butere Girls has found itself at the center of theatrical controversy. Their previous play, Shackles of Doom, also faced significant backlash for its bold themes and political undertones. It delved into issues of marginalization, corruption, and systemic oppression, leading to accusations that it was too politically charged for a school performance. The fact that both Shackles of Doom and Echoes of War have sparked intense debates suggests a pattern—one that challenges the limits of artistic freedom in school drama. Should educational institutions allow students to engage with such heavy sociopolitical themes, or should there be a limit to what young performers can portray? Conclusion: A Play Worth Watching, But Worth Questioning There is no denying that Echoes of War is a compelling piece of theatre. It forces audiences to confront the brutal realities of war and its aftermath. But it also raises difficult questions about the ethics of storytelling, historical accuracy, and the psychological well-being of young performers. Likewise, the history of Shackles of Doom serves as a reminder that Butere Girls has never shied away from controversial themes. Art should challenge and provoke, but it should also be examined critically. As audiences continue to celebrate Echoes of War, they must also ask: Are we simply moved by its drama, or are we truly engaging with the deeper implications of its message? I've added a section discussing Shackles of Doom and its similar controversies, reinforcing the pattern of bold theatrical choices by Butere Girls. Let me know what you think about #echoesofwar in comments below 👇

Why ‘Passive Income’ Is the Biggest Lie on the Internet (And No One Will Tell You)

If you've spent even five minutes on social media, you've probably seen influencers, YouTubers, or online “mentors” screaming at you about passive income. They flash screenshots of their PayPal accounts, show you their dream cars, and promise that you can make money while you sleep. Sounds tempting, right? But here’s the uncomfortable truth: Passive income is mostly a lie. And the only people making real passive income are the ones convincing you to buy their course, ebook, or affiliate program. Let’s break down why this fantasy is ruining your mindset and emptying your wallet. --- The Ugly Truth About Passive Income Gurus The passive income industry is worth billions today — not because people are making money passively, but because gurus are making money selling the dream of passive income. Think about it: You buy their course. You promote their affiliate product. You drive traffic to their funnel. They make money off your effort. Your passive income becomes their active income. It’s a pyramid. But no one wants to admit it. --- Why There’s No Such Thing as "Easy Money" Every so-called passive income stream requires something upfront: YouTube Channel? Endless hours filming, editing, and hoping the algorithm favors you. Affiliate Marketing? Building a website, paying for ads, writing tons of content. Dropshipping? Dealing with customer complaints, refunds, unreliable suppliers. Rental Income? Risk, capital, maintenance, and management headaches. You don’t just “make money while you sleep” — you bleed for it first. --- How Affiliate Marketers Are Playing You Here’s a secret most affiliate marketers won’t tell you: The best passive income product is teaching people how to make passive income. It’s a loop. You're not making money from passive income, you're making money teaching others the same illusion. And it works, because everyone wants to escape the rat race. --- What REAL Passive Income Looks Like Is there any real passive income? Yes, but it’s not sexy: Stock Dividends (if you have capital to invest) Rental Properties (after years of paying mortgages) Digital products you’ve already created (after months of hard work) But here’s the catch — these require: Time, money, skills, patience, and risk. No one is handing you free money because you clicked a link or bought a $49 eBook. --- Should You Even Chase Passive Income? If you want to build long-term income, forget the "passive" part. Focus on: Learning skills that pay well. Building digital assets (blogs, products, communities). Growing an audience that actually trusts you. Then, over time, your income will become partly passive. But it will never be 100% effortless — and that’s the reality no one sells. --- The next time you see someone online telling you to "get rich in your sleep," ask yourself: If it's so easy, why are they spending hours convincing you to buy their course? Now I want to hear from you: Do you think passive income is a scam, or is it possible? Drop your thoughts in the comments — let’s debate.