By David Wadulo
The spirit of Kisumu rich cultural heritage soared to new heights as the Story Makers Society (SMS) presented a dazzling collection of national trophies and awards to the CECM for Youths, Sports, Culture, and Gender, Hon. Beatrice Odongo, at her office.
The prestigious accolades were earned at the just-concluded annual Kenya Music Festival held at Moi Girls Secondary School in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, where the Kisumu delegation delivered a stunning performance, cementing the county’s reputation as a powerhouse of narrative talent.
National Champions in Narrative.
The SMS team, whose participation was proudly sponsored by the County Government of Kisumu’s Directorate of Sports and Culture, achieved remarkable success. Out of the seven items they presented on stage, every single one returned with a trophy or award, demonstrating exceptional consistency and quality.
The pinnacle of their achievement was securing the Number One position nationally in the coveted narratives category. The team was crowned the Best Storyteller in Kenya for their compelling narrative titled: “Nyamgondho wuod ombare.” This victory signifies not just artistic brilliance but a powerful commitment to preserving and promoting local folklore.
The trophy presentation ceremony was a moment of pride and celebration. CECM Hon. Beatrice Odongo received the team and their impressive haul of awards, recognizing the young creatives’ dedication and hard work.
Present during the ceremony was Madam Nancy Warsame, the Chief Officer of the department, who acknowledged the crucial role of government support in achieving such national recognition.
“This achievement is a testament to the County Government’s belief in the potential of our youth and the value of our culture,” said Hon. Odongo. “When we invest in talent through structures like the Directorate of Sports and Culture, we don’t just win trophies; we safeguard our history and empower a generation of artists. The Story Makers Society has made Kisumu proud, and we commit to deepening our support for cultural innovation.”
The success of the SMS at the Kenya Music Festival underscores the efficacy of strategic partnerships between the County Government and youth creative groups, promising a vibrant future for cultural arts in Kisumu County.
