By Musumba Nyakoe
More than 300 children from Lakisama Ward and surrounding areas participated in a vibrant dance competition organised by Lakisama MCA Victor Ochola, popularly known as Ringo, in an event aimed at nurturing talent and empowering young people.
The event, dubbed Ringo Kids Dance Edition, brought together participants across different age groups for a day of talent showcase, skills development and entertainment. Several dance groups took part in the competition, including Safe Girls, Curious Cousins, Union Crew, Infinity, Hakuna Matata, Star Kids and Flex.
The competition featured junior and senior categories, each with cash prizes awarded to top performers. In the junior category, the winner received KSh40,000, second place KSh30,000, and third place KSh20,000. Senior category winners walked away with KSh70,000, KSh60,000 and KSh50,000 respectively.
The event was held at Lakisama Primary School grounds and was hosted by MCs Queen Tyra and Talipha, drawing a large crowd of residents and supporters.
Organisers said the initiative is among the first of its kind in the ward since the introduction of devolved ward administration, with over KSh1 million spent on prizes and event facilitation.
Speaking during the event, Ochola emphasised the importance of investing in youth, education and community development. He called for unity of purpose among leaders and residents to drive progress in the ward, particularly in empowering young people and women.
The MCA also highlighted his ongoing women’s economic empowerment initiative, which seeks to support women in the ward through income-generating opportunities.
The event attracted widespread praise on social media, with participants and residents commending the initiative for providing a platform for young talent. Members of the Ngei Stars Dance Crew from Mathare described the competition as a life-changing opportunity that inspires discipline, confidence and unity among youth.
In addition to the main prizes, Ochola awarded KSh5,000 to selected supporters through engagements on his social media platforms.
Supporters lauded the MCA’s efforts, noting that such initiatives play a key role in uplifting communities and creating opportunities for young people to showcase and develop their talents.
