Visually impaired students lead KU to pop glory at music festival

Visually impaired students of Kenyatta University perform during the Kenya National Music festival at Meru School, on August 11, 2025. [Phares Mutembei, Standard]

In a performance that stirred hearts and stole the show, visually impaired students from Kenyatta University lit up the 97th National Kenya Music Festival (KMF) in Meru with their electrifying rendition of "Nyasembo", a beloved Ohangla hit by Odongo Swagg.

The choir, led by three visually impaired trailblazers, among them Adika Onyango and Paul Manana, transformed the stage into a space of unity, emotion, and artistic brilliance. Their flawless harmonies and captivating choreography defied expectation and earned them the coveted top position in the university category.

Through music, they proved that limitations are no match for talent, vision, and purpose.

"Our trainer, Dr Elijah Odongo, arranged the piece for choral performance. Being from the region where the song originates, I felt a personal connection and was proud to be a lead singer. We collaborate as soloists to create choreography and expressive elements, it brings the music to life in a unique way," Onyango, a fourth-year Bachelor of Education (Special Needs) student, shared.

"The experience was incredible. I'm grateful for the opportunity to showcase our talent on such a platform," Paul Manana, a recent diploma graduate in music, added.

Masinde Muliro University and Moi University took second and third place respectively. This year's competition challenged universities to reimagine popular hits as choral pieces, pushing creative and technical boundaries.

Moi University impressed with "Rhumba" by Wanavokali, co-composed by alumnus Melina Miso. Arranger Fred Ongeri noted the challenge of turning pop into choir music, praising universities for their innovation.

Masinde Muliro University performed "My Jaber" by H_art the Band, while Daystar University chose "Ukimuona". Rongo University reworked Sauti Sol's "Money Lover", and Mount Kenya University performed "Nikikutazama".

JKUAT electrified the audience with Harry Richie's viral hit "Vaida".

In the vocational training category, Sigalagala National Polytechnic emerged top with Sauti Sol's "Unconditionally Bae", followed by Kitale and Kabete polytechnics.

Kitale also performed Jabidii's "Paukwa Pakawa", which delighted the composer with its youthful energy and Sheng.

In pre-primary singing games, Holy Innocents Tasia from Nairobi won, ahead of Kings and Queens Academy (Nyanza) and Mtwapa Elite Academy (Coast). Judges emphasised age-appropriateness, tone, and intonation.

Damacrest Secondary triumphed in the Equity Bank-sponsored insurance theme, while KICD-sponsored performances highlighted songs from Bishop Linus Okok, Moi Kadzonzo Girls, Highway School, and Keveye Girls.