Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy PS Fikirini Jacobs is set to inaugurate the Mijikenda cultural event slated for December 27, at the Kilifi water grounds, in an event aimed at celebrating the Mijikenda culture and recognizing legendary local artists.
The festival, which will bring together residents, community leaders and artists, is expected to become an annual event dedicated to preserving cultural identity, while providing a platform to honour and promote local talents.
Despite the Mijikenda community having an existing cultural day known as Chendachenda, the PS explained that its original purpose has been undermined over time due to excessive political interference, leading to conflict and loss of cultural focus.
“We have had a day known as Chendachenda, but in recent times it has been taken over by too much politics. As a result, the cultural aspect of that day has been lost,” Jacobs said.
“We therefore decided that there was need to inaugurate a special day dedicated to celebrating the culture of the Mijikenda people. The first edition will be held this coming Saturday,” he added.
Speaking at the venue ahead of the event, the PS said all preparations had been finalized and revealed that this year’s festival will be held under the theme of celebrating legendary Bango music icon Joseph Ngala, popularly known as Mzee Ngala Mwenyewe.
Mzee Ngala, a 90-year-old Kenyan musician born in Mombasa, is credited with pioneering the Bango music genre, which blends jazz influences with traditional coastal rhythms.
“Each cultural gala will have its own theme and main focus. This year’s theme is to celebrate a legendary Bango music artist, Mzee Ngala Mwenyewe,” Jacobs explained.
Local music bands and artists are expected to take centre stage during the event, reflecting the government’s commitment to nurturing grassroots talent within the creative industry.
The inauguration of the cultural gala underscores the role of culture and creative arts in empowering young people, creating economic opportunities and strengthening community cohesion.
By spotlighting local artists, the festival seeks to encourage youth participation in cultural activities, while at the same time promoting sustainable livelihoods through the arts.
Government agencies involved in the creative and digital economy will also be present to offer on-site services, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the creative sector.
“In addition to music, agencies involved in the creative industry will be present. For instance, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) will be here to support young filmmakers by offering classification services on-site,” the PS said.
Kilifi Municipal Manager, Mwango Kalu, who accompanied the PS, assured the public of their safety, noting that all security agencies had been briefed and that law and order would be maintained during the event.
Meanwhile, amidst plans to hold the festival annually, stakeholders believe the Mijikenda cultural gala will grow into a key event on the region’s cultural calendar, contributing immensely to cultural tourism and fostering pride in local identity.
By Jackson Msanzu
