The Ministry of Education Kenya has issued an official response following the heated discussions surrounding “Echoes of War”, a dramatic performance by Butere Girls High School during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival 2025. The play, which stirred emotions and sparked national debate, centered around post-conflict trauma, child soldiers, and the psychological toll of war on children and communities.
The Butere Girls’ play was hailed by many for its bold storytelling and artistic excellence. However, it also raised concerns over whether such heavy and emotional themes are suitable for high school students.
No Ban, Just Guidance: Ministry Clarifies Stance on Echoes of War
In a written statement addressed to the public, the Ministry of Education clarified that it does not ban or censor school performances, including plays and films presented at national festivals. However, the Ministry emphasized the need for content that is both educational and age-appropriate, aligning with the competency-based curriculum (CBC) and Kenya’s national values.
“Echoes of War is a powerful production. However, we urge schools to ensure that themes presented in co-curricular activities such as drama are developmentally appropriate for the learners involved, and uphold national values,” the statement read.
This response comes after calls from certain education stakeholders to ban or limit student performances that tackle sensitive topics like war, violence, trauma, and mental health.
Kenya Drama and Film Festival 2025: A Platform for Talent and Truth
The Kenya National Drama and Film Festival 2025 has once again proven to be a vital space for exploring real societal issues through art. Echoes of War, as performed by Butere Girls, captured the imagination of thousands across Kenya, with its poignant depiction of how war affects the innocence of children and the structure of African societies.
Many praised the Butere Girls High School performance for pushing boundaries and sparking important national conversations. On social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok, Kenyans used hashtags like #EchoesOfWarKE and #ButereGirlsDramaFest to show support for the girls’ bravery and acting talent.
The Future of Drama in Kenya’s Schools: What the Ministry Plans
Following the controversy surrounding Echoes of War, the Ministry has signaled the need for a more structured and safe approach to creative storytelling in schools.
To address the challenges raised, the Ministry of Education plans to:
- Develop age-specific guidelines for school drama and film content through collaboration with curriculum developers, educators, and psychologists.
- Engage child psychologists and trauma experts to advise on how learners can safely portray sensitive topics.
- Train drama teachers and festival organizers on ethical storytelling, learner safety, and trauma-aware directing.
- Encourage schools to involve Boards of Management (BoMs) and parents in script review processes to foster accountability.
This approach aims to preserve the integrity of CBC drama festivals in Kenya, while ensuring that students benefit from drama without emotional harm.
Public Opinion: Kenyans Defend Butere Girls’ Right to Creative Expression
The public has overwhelmingly defended Butere Girls High School’s right to artistic expression, viewing the play not as a threat but as a truthful reflection of societal issues.
Across social media, Kenyans voiced strong support:
“This play represents the reality many families in Northern Kenya and other marginalized areas face every day. Let’s not silence the truth because it’s uncomfortable,” one parent posted on Facebook.
“Butere Girls have done more with this script than many politicians have done with speeches. Let’s applaud, not punish them,” added a user on X.
Advocates argue that students in Kenya should be encouraged to tackle real issues through drama, as a way of developing empathy, critical thinking, and awareness. Many also feel that over-regulation may suppress emerging voices, especially in rural and girls’ schools that are using drama to challenge norms and spark change.
Achieng’: The Voice of a Generation
At the heart of Echoes of War is Achieng’, a brave, broken, but unbowed young girl whose journey speaks for many voiceless children caught in conflict. Her monologues, silences, and courage anchor the play’s emotional weight and have made the character a symbol of resilience in Kenyan theatre.
Download the Full Script of Echoes of War
If you’re a teacher, drama club coach, or student who wants to read or perform this inspiring play, we’ve made it easier for you.
Download Echoes of War Script (PDF)
Final Thoughts: Why Echoes of War Matters
The Ministry’s response to Butere Girls’ Echoes of War reflects a growing tension in Kenya’s education system: how to nurture creative freedom while protecting learners. This debate is not just about one play—it’s about the future of student expression, storytelling in CBC, and how we prepare youth to face a complex world.
By defending truth through theatre, Butere Girls High School has inspired a nation, and reminded us that even the youngest voices can shape powerful national conversations.
