A nationwide peace campaign has been launched targeting Kenyans in the creative and arts sectors with a view to using talent as an expression of peace. The competition is part of a two-month peace activism campaign.
The initiative is aimed at using the power of art to bridge gaps and forge peace while celebrating Kenya’s diversity. It will feature the use of a digital platform where participants can upload their creative peace themed work that includes music, drawing, painting, photography, architecture, ceramics, sculpture, conceptual art, comedy, poetry, design, fashion and production.
“I believe each and every Kenyan is anxious as we move closer and closer to the August 8 polls. This campaign is designed to unite and promote peace during this period and hopefully change the atmosphere in the country,’’ said Mohamed Taib, Unga wa Dola Marketing Manager who have sponsored the first ever Art for Peace campaign.
A recent World Bank report says that nearly one in every five Kenyan youths of working age has no job compared to Uganda and Tanzania where about one in every 20 young people is jobless.
“With 80% of Kenya’s population being below 35 years, this leaves a large chunk of the youth exposed to political manipulation. It is estimated that over 3 million young people are engaged in one way or another in talent-related fields in Kenya, and this has formed the basis of the Art for Peace campaign to provide them with the opportunity to showcase their creativity via digital media,’’ said Mr Taib.
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Closing on the 11th of August 2017, the campaign will feature expressive exhibitions demonstrating the everyday ways we can all support peace.
“Beyond the elections, we have a country to build and families to take care of. This peace campaign will also include the option of a peace pledge if one is not participating in the submissions, and ultimately we expect to reach each and every Kenya,’’ Taib concluded.
Winners of the competition shall be determined through a combination of votes by visitors to the website and a panel of three judges led by former Tusker Project Fame judge Ian Mbugua, comedian Eric Omondi and Judy Ogana.
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