The Kenyan Ministry of Education is integrating professional artists into the Kenya Music Festival following a directive from President William Ruto to boost the nation's creative economy.

• The initiative aims to improve student artistic development by exposing them to industry professionals and creating career pathways.
• Nelson Sifuna, Head of the Directorate of Field Coordination and Co-curricular Activities, stated that talented non-teacher artists are now being incorporated.
• This move aligns with a recent directive by President Ruto to fully fund drama festivals and position them within formal learning pathways, recognizing their role in holistic youth development.
• Equity Group committed Ksh25 million to support this year's festival, marking their second year of sponsorship.