Me & Covid-19 in Mukuru
Br. Frank & Margaret Kariuki looking at the art pieces. Photo: Stephen Tengo
On 19th November 2020 an art competition was hosted at the Ruben Centre's hall. The competition involved grade 4 and grade 8 participants. The categories included painting, handcrafts and pencil drawing. The young boys and girls let their imagination run wild on paper through color in a bid to highlight the theme, “Me and Covid-19 in Mukuru”.
The Mukuru informal settlement hosts around a million people (according to the 2019 census), making it vulnerable to the spread of the coronavirus among other ailments. As the youngsters raced against time to best portray their experiences with the pandemic, they highlighted various observations. These included advocating for the practice of safety and prevention measures such as wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, sanitizing and staying home.
In the same vein, the pupils spotlighted the negative impacts of the pandemic back at what is home to them and surrounding environment by showcasing broken families and homes turned into houses. The learners also used the opportunity to request for the proper use of the Covid-19 funds by the government to ensure that vulnerable populations are safeguarded.
The participants came from various areas within Mukuru to unite and paint a bigger picture on how the Coronavirus has disrupted countless lives in the settlement. Winners were selected based on their originality, creativity and ability to communicate with art. The winners were selected by a 3-judge bench. As the winners scooped prizes such as art and other school materials, all participants were eventually offered biscuits to replenish their energy into a happy medium.
The art competition opened the window of innovation by inspiring the participants into envisioning how art can actualize the just and empowered Mukuru they want. As they come of age, their efforts to attain a dignified lifestyle in Mukuru can only be achieved with the unwavering support of their parents, teachers, peers and the Ruben Centre.
More students were willing to partake in upcoming art competitions but were unable to due to limited resources. Support offered through donations, mentorship and exposure to creative environments can boost the creative capacities of the budding young talents to achieving more in embracing their role as members of the Mukuru community.
By: Stephen Tengo
Edits: GB