Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening programs that protect and empower children, describing them as the nation’s “software” that enables Kenya’s development “hardware” to thrive.
Speaking in Eldoret during the closing ceremony of the 98th Kenya Music and Cultural Festivals (KMCF) 2025, Prof Kindiki said increased funding will be directed to ministries and state departments responsible for children’s welfare, national values and family protection. He noted that a strong nation is built on well-educated, patriotic and morally grounded young people.
The DP stressed the need to shield children and families from harmful cultural practices, gender-based violence and discrimination, while promoting dignity, coexistence and respect among communities.
Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage CS Hanna Cheptumo echoed the DP’s remarks, saying music and the arts remain powerful tools for addressing societal challenges, including early marriages, femicide and GBV. She urged communities to embrace culture as a channel for dialogue and behaviour change.
Uasin Gishu Governor Dr Jonathan Chelilim praised the festival for showcasing Kenya’s cultural richness, adding that nurturing cultural expression strengthens unity and helps communities respond to emerging social issues.
