The annual People Dialogue Festival (PDF) 2025, organised by the Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD-Kenya), took place from March 5th to 8th at Uhuru Park in Nairobi. The festival, themed Building a Collaborative Democracy for Kenya’s Sustainable Future, brought together leaders, policymakers, civil society organisations, youth representatives, and other stakeholders to discuss democracy, governance, and sustainable development. Members of the school council were among the attendees, who had the privilege of participating in this impactful event.
Discussions centred on strengthening democracy through accountability, civic engagement, and inclusive governance with an emphasis on the importance of active participation from all sectors of society in shaping Kenya’s future.
The festival attracted a diverse range of participants, including political leaders, diplomats, students, and civil society representatives such as:
- Hon. Kiraitu Murungi, CMD Chairperson and former Meru Governor, highlighted the need to safeguard democracy from the rise of an imperial presidency.
- Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, encouraged citizens to hold leaders accountable for transparent governance.
- Hon. Okiya Omtatah, Busia Senator, stressed the importance of youth participation in leadership beyond traditional party politics.
- Dr Ed Barnett MBE, Deputy British High Commissioner, spoke on the role of political parties in fostering an inclusive democracy.
For our school council members, attending PDF 2025 was an invaluable experience. It allowed them to engage with national leaders, learn about governance, and witness the power of dialogue in shaping policies.
The festival concluded on March 8, coinciding with International Women’s Day 2025, recognising the achievements of women while addressing challenges such as gender-based violence and discrimination. The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) acknowledged Kenya’s progress in education and health while emphasising the need for continued efforts toward gender equality.
The festival ended on a high note with a performance by a renowned Kenyan artist, celebrating Kenya’s rich cultural heritage. The lively performance added a unifying and celebratory atmosphere, leaving attendees inspired and reflective as the event came to a close.
The People Dialogue Festival 2025 was a transformative experience for all who attended. It not only provided a platform for meaningful discussions on democracy and governance but also inspired young leaders to take an active role in shaping Kenya’s future. As student leaders, the school council members left the festival with renewed motivation to contribute to their communities and champion the values of collaboration, accountability, and inclusivity.
Attending PDF 2025 was a transformative experience for the student council members. It reinforced the idea that leadership is about positively impacting others and that, as young leaders, they have a responsibility to engage, educate, and empower those around them. The festival inspired them to work harder toward creating a more inclusive, compassionate, and informed community; it reminded us that leadership is not just about holding positions but about making a difference in the lives of others.
Together, we can build a better future for Kenya and beyond.
By Mixella Igiranenza
