The Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) has emphasized the need to protect children in the wake of massive technological advancements leading to numerous threats online at the ongoing Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals (KNDFF).
As the theme sponsor of the 61st KNDFF at Shimo La Tewa Secondary School, Shanzu Teachers College, and Sheikh Khalifa High School, CA has taken the opportunity to drive the point home on how and why everyone in society has a role to play in protecting the children.
In line with this year’s theme, Fostering Digital Transformation through Theatre and Film: Promoting Online Safety, the Authority is hoping to educate and sensitize the public on emerging issues through play, poetry, spoken word, cultural dance, singing games for early-age and narratives, thus raising awareness on topical pertinent issues among Kenyans such as Child Online Protection. The Authority has sponsored several categories featuring learners from Early Years (Pre-primary P1 and 2), lower primary and primary, secondary, tertiary, and universities.
“In order to increase productivity, ICT consumers, including children, must have a safer experience while accessing and using technology. Our continued collaboration with the Ministry of Education in the planning and execution of this event shall contribute significantly to achieving this mutual objective,” said Mr. Ezra Chiloba, the Communications Authority Director General.
“As we reflect on this year’s KDNFF theme and the government’s focus on digital transformation, it is clear that the Child Online Protection (COP) program is more relevant than ever. With children increasingly using smart devices to access the internet for learning and entertainment, there is a critical need to ensure their safety online. It is our primary responsibility as the regulator to take care of our children and youth in Kenya” said Patricia Muchiri, Communication Authority’s Ag. Director/ Corporate Communication.
The festival gathers students from schools and colleges all across Kenya and features a diverse range of stage performances, including traditional plays, cultural and modern dances, stand-up comedy, mime, and film.
The festival, which is resuming for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, often presents productions that address pressing social, political, and economic issues in the country. And now for the first time, features issues to do with technology, the internet, and the challenges that come along with it.
For years, the festival has been used to promote and preserve the diversities entrenched in Kenya’s rich cultural values through play, poetry, spoken word, cultural dance, singing games for early age and narratives as well as provide a forum for promising artists and performers to nurture their talents and expose their works in the genres.