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Talent academy to open next year, Uhuru says

President Kenyatta with Ngombeni High School student, Iddi Juma after his moving rendition of a Swahili solo verse titled 'Majanga'/PSCU

President Kenyatta with Ngombeni High School student, Iddi Juma after his moving rendition of a Swahili solo verse titled ‘Majanga’/PSCU

MOMBASA, Kenya, Aug 16 – The Government will increase funding for the performing arts to harness and transform talent of the youth into productive activities, President Uhuru Kenyatta has said.

The President said this as he announced that a talent centre being established in Nairobi will be ready for use by next year.

He said the Government has already allocated Sh350 million this year for the establishment of the centre and more funds will be allocated next year.

President Kenyatta also called on Governors to set up county talent centers to support children who have special skills.

“We will work closely with counties to develop talent centers so that we turn the talent into productive careers,” he said.

President Kenyatta made the announcement at State House, Mombasa where the best teams in this year’s National Music Festival were hosted.

He disclosed that the Government will from next year increase funding for the music festival.

“I will do everything possible to increase the resources available for the national music festival and it should be part and parcel of our national calendar,” he said.

The funding for the national event will be factored in next year’s budget.

Addressing the students and invited guests after performances by the winning teams in this year’s festival, President Kenyatta said more measures to support the music industry.

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He added that the Government will also consider waiving tax on music instruments to support the industry.

The captivating performances were based on current socio-political themes ranging from terrorism to issues related to the girl child as well as boys.

They also showcased best traditional dances from different ethnic groups in Kenya.

Commenting on the performances, President Kenyatta said it was evident that tribalism only exists only within the older generation.

“We saw students from Samburu performing a Borana song. This shows you that tribalism exists only in the minds of the parents,” he said.

The President also thanked teachers for sacrificing to train and act as good guardians for children under their care.

He said the Government will continue working to improve the welfare of teachers in return for the good work they were doing.

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