By George Orido

Last week, over 50 schools from all over the country took part in a music, dance, narrative performance and soccer competition.

The sponsor of the event was celebrating a centenary of shining shoes in Africa and came up with the idea of incorporating football handling skills choreographed in concert with cheerleading meshed with authentic African music.

The ‘Kiwi Born in Africa schools showcase’ was held simultaneously in Nairobi and Nakuru where each participating school presented a performing team of nine pupils.

Greenvale Academy, Nairobi, was outstanding with its piece Born in Africa that was clear in plot and story as well as innovative in form. The group also celebrated what it means to be African with drumming.

Father Walstra Primary School from Bungoma kept audience members at Afraha High School, Nakuru, on the edge of their seats with a skilful, thoughtful and well rehearsed piece that saw them take third position overall at the fete.

In Nairobi, Laiser Hill Academy brought down the auditorium roof with masterful and incredible dribbling skills by two pupils who are former street children.

The team weaved a collage of music and movements from different cultures of Maasai, Luo, Turkana, Miji Kenda and Chagga in a powerful harmony and choreography.

Moi Avenue Primary School led the pack with Riara School following in hot pursuit as first runners-up.

The latter presented Maasai, Gikuyu and Buganda sources united in one title, Being Proud of Being Born in Africa and their investment in appropriate and fascinating costumes depicting the continent’s material culture paid off.

Kathaana Primary School from Eastern Province made a powerful impression with their folksong, Nduku, about a courageous African girl who loves to dance to the African beat and mix with people from other communities.

During the first phase of the competition, 500 schools participated in a national essay-writing contest that depicted the pupils’ understanding of being born in Africa. The top 18 groups will meet next month for the next phase.