By Eumu Emmanuel
The 2024 Uganda National Primary Schools Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) Festival concluded with a strong emphasis on nurturing children’s talents for a successful future. The event, held at Mbale Secondary School, saw Mbale Resident City Commissioner Hamuzah Banjah call on parents to support their children’s artistic abilities while also ensuring their well-being.
In his address as the chief guest, Banjah urged the Ministry of Education to allocate equal funding to MDD activities across all schools, praising NIRA and School Pay for their roles in the festival’s success. He also called for stricter regulations on money lenders exploiting citizens under the guise of the Parish Development Model program.
Nakivubo Primary School, Kampala, emerged as the overall winners, followed by Cleaves Origin Junior School, Kampala Buganda Road Primary School, and St. Theresa Namilyango. Among the new entrants, Kagadi’s Kids Light Nursery and Primary School made a notable debut, finishing 16th nationwide. The school’s director, Edward Kyomuhendo, credited their success to the dedication of pupils, teachers, and trainers, and committed to further investment in enhancing their performances.
This year’s festival saw a record number of new schools participating, reflecting the growing interest and competition in the annual event, which showcases the rich talents in music, dance, and drama from schools across Uganda.