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.​

How to Register for Kenya's Social Health Authority (SHA) in 2025: Full Guide for Individuals and Families"

​To register with Kenya’s Social Health Authority (SHA)—the successor to the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF)—you have several convenient options:​ Step By Step Insurance ✅ Option 1: Register Online via the SHA Website Visit the official SHA website: sha.go.ke. Click on “Register Individual”. Fill in your personal details, including: Full name National ID number Date of birth KRA PIN Marital status Occupation Contact information Create an Afya Yangu account and set a 4-digit PIN. Verify your account using the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone. Complete your profile by uploading a passport photo and confirming your residence details.​ This method is ideal if you have internet access and prefer managing your registration online. ​ 📱 Option 2: Register via USSD (No Internet Needed) Dial *147# on your mobile phone. Accept the terms and conditions. Enter your National ID number and first name. Follow the prompts to provide additional required information. You will receive a confirmation message upon successful registration.​ This option is quick and accessible for users without smartphones or internet access. ​ Tnx Africa 🏢 Option 3: Assisted Registration at SHA Centers If you prefer in-person assistance or lack access to a phone or internet, visit a nearby Huduma Centre or authorized SHA registration point.​ Kenya Guides Bring the following documents: Your National ID (or Alien ID/Refugee ID for non-citizens) Birth certificates for any dependents​ Kenya Guides Staff will guide you through the registration process. ​ Kenya Guides ℹ️ Additional Information Registration is mandatory for all Kenyan residents, including children and foreign nationals residing in Kenya. NHIF members must re-register under SHA; the transition is not automatic. Employers are required to register their employees and remit contributions on their behalf.​

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 🇮🇹 Inter Milan 2–2 🇩🇪 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 Martínez 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 🇪🇸 Real Madrid 1–2 🇬🇧 Arsenal (Aggregate: 1–5) Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabéu, 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. ​ 🇫🇷 Paris Saint-Germain 2–3 🇬🇧 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.​ 🇪🇸 Barcelona 1–2 🇩🇪 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.​ 🔮 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!

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

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 🏆 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 .​ 🎭 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 .​ 🎬 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 👏 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, . ---

Jay Melody's Anticipated Visit to Eldoret: What Fans Should Know !

Jay Melody's Anticipated Visit to Eldoret: What Fans Should Know A Brief Overview of Jay Melody's Recent Activities

. . Eldoret's Vibrant Music Scene Eldoret, known for its rich cultural heritage, is set to host the 98th edition of the National Kenya Music and Cultural Festivals in 2025 . While Jay Melody's participation in this event has not been confirmed, the festival promises a showcase of diverse musical talents from across the country. Stay Updated For fans eager to see Jay Melody perform in Eldoret, it's advisable to keep an eye on his official social media channels and local event listings for any future announcements. Given his history of surprise performances and collaborations, there's always a possibility of an unexpected appearance. will you attend his concert let us know in the comments section below 👇

Day to Remember: Highlights from the 2025 Drama Festival Held on April 14th

A Day to Remember: Highlights from the 2025 Drama Festival Held on April 14th

Date: April 14, 2025 Author: InsideMyThoughts07 --- The stage was set, the lights were bright, and the talent was undeniable. The much-anticipated 2025 Drama Festival took place on Monday, 14th April — and it was nothing short of spectacular. Hosted at [insert venue], the festival brought together vibrant, talented students from various schools who showcased their creativity, emotion, and storytelling prowess through electrifying performances. Participating Schools and Performances A total of seven schools graced the stage, each presenting unique plays, choral verses, solo verses, and modern dances that left the audience at the edge of their seats: 1. Butere Girls High School – Their drama titled "The Broken Strings" explored the complexity of generational trauma and healing. It was emotional, raw, and powerfully executed. 2. Kakamega High School – Delivered a thrilling performance of "The Vote of No Confidence", a political satire filled with humor and punchy dialogue. 3. Booker Academy – Their choral verse "Digital Orphans" highlighted the challenges of modern parenting and technology’s impact on youth. 4. St. Mary's Mumias – A suspenseful play titled "Silent Echoes" delved into mental health in schools. 5. Mukumu Girls – Captivated the crowd with their well-choreographed modern dance themed "Freedom in Rhythm". 6. Maseno School – Presented a solo verse titled "The Last Bell", a moving piece on the final moments of a retiring teacher. 7. Lugulu Girls – Enchanted the audience with their play "Shadows of Justice", dramatizing the struggles of a young girl seeking truth in a corrupt village. Best Performers of the Day Several students stood out and stole the spotlight with their memorable performances: Faith Naliaka (Butere Girls) – Best Actress for her lead role in "The Broken Strings" Brian Omondi (Kakamega High) – Best Actor for his compelling portrayal of a corrupt MP in "The Vote of No Confidence" Agnes Achieng (Booker Academy) – Best Solo Verse Performer for her passionate rendition of "I Am Not Invisible" St. Mary’s Mumias Drama Team – Best Ensemble Cast for flawless coordination and character dynamics Exciting Moments The crowd erupted in laughter during Kakamega High’s political satire, especially during the “campaign speech” that mimicked real politicians. A tear-jerking moment came during Maseno School’s solo verse, where the hall fell silent as the actor delivered his final lines with trembling voice and visible emotion. Unexpected power outage? Not a problem! Lugulu Girls performed part of their play in total silence and dim light, using only their voices and physical acting to paint a scene — a true show of professionalism. The event ended with a powerful mass dance performance featuring representatives from all schools, symbolizing unity through art.

The 2025 Drama Festival reminded us of the powerful role drama plays in education — not just as entertainment but as a vehicle for storytelling, healing, and social change. All schools brought their A-game, making this year’s festival one of the most memorable in recent history. Did you attend the event? What was your favorite performance? Let us know in the comments! --- Stay tuned to insidemythoughts07.blogspot.com for more updates on local events, talent showcases, and inspiring stories from our community