Kisumu artists start no stone throwing drive

By Otieno Owino

Artistes in Kisumu have launched a peace campaign aimed at bringing youths together to stop any acts of violence as the March 2013 General Election draws nearer.

The campaign dubbed ‘Hatutarusha Mawe’ (we will not hurl stones) kicked off on Saturday with performances of skits and narratives at places regarded as hot spots of violence in the city such as Kondele, Manyatta, Kibuye  and Car Wash areas.

Brand Kenya’s public relations officer Mukami Ireri said they support the initiative because it is driven by the youth and is part of their wider mandate to promote Kenya’s national values of peace integration and unity.

“We are asking the youth to begin today to take the mantle of leadership and we will support such initiatives that disseminate the message of peace,” she said.

Berlin Ajeck, the leader of group of artistes going by the name Kisumu Artistes network, said they aim at mobilising youth in all the violence hotspots to shun violence and maintain peace.

 Ills in society

“We want to have peace in Kisumu. ”

“We are saying that whatever the outcome of elections, we will not throw stones,” he said.

Mr Ajeck says artists want to use their occupation as a tool to preach against all ills in the society.