What began as a celebration of artistic expression has now become a stage for a deeper national conversation. The Kenya Schools and Colleges National Drama and Film Festival, currently underway in Nakuru County, has taken a dramatic turn not because of what’s on stage, but what’s being kept from public view.
At the heart of the storm is Echoes of War, a bold and emotionally charged play by Butere Girls High School, which delves into Kenya’s governance and the Gen Z-led protests of 2024. Its performance, scheduled for Thursday, has sparked a series of behind-the-scenes restrictions that have turned a spotlight on censorship and the role of young people in national dialogue.
Photo credit: Boniface Mwangi | Nation
In an unexpected shift on Day 4 of the festival, organizers enforced a sudden media blackout. Edu TV, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD)’s channel that had been live-streaming the festival, ceased coverage. Journalists and members of the public were denied access to Kirobon Girls High School, where the play is being staged. Cameras were removed, and KICD along with other media partners were instructed to leave the venue.
The abrupt decision coincided with the lead-up to Echoes of War, raising questions about whether the blackout was in response to the play’s political themes. “There were no cameras in the hall,” reported a festival participant. “It was as though they wanted to erase the performance before it even began.”
Further fueling concerns was the treatment of Cleophas Malala, the play’s scriptwriter, who was reportedly barred from entering the school on Wednesday during final rehearsals. His absence was a blow to the students, who nevertheless showed resilience by proceeding with the performance.
Originally set to go on stage at 6:15 p.m., the performers were delayed, only accessing the venue at around 7:30 p.m. yet their commitment never wavered.
While official reasons for the media blackout remain unclear, the impact is already being felt. What was meant to be a showcase of youthful creativity has instead sparked a debate about freedom of expression in the arts.
