Mwanyambo School for the Deaf in Taita-Taveta County will represent Taita-Taveta County in regional drama competitions after their winning Kenya Sign Language (KSL) play on destigmatising menstrual health emerged the best item at the county drama festivals.
Over 20 primary schools that had won during the sub-county competition battled it out in a hotly contested event at Voi CDF Hall on Saturday where electrifying plays, solo, choral and dances were presented to large crowds of drama enthusiasts.
Ms. Velma Awino, a teacher at the special school, said they were optimistic of doing well at the regional competitions slotted for next week on Thursday in Mombasa County.
“We are all excited and hope to do well at the regional event in Mombasa County,” she said.
Their winning play, from category of special schools, was about highlighting the stigma and ignorance surrounding menstrual health especially amongst young girls in schools.
During an impressive performance, marked by gestures, mimicry and pantomime, the deaf learners enacted a girl traumatized by her periods.
The play also took an indirect dig at teachers who perpetuate this stigma by treating menstrual health as an oddity and something to be feared.
“We intend to demystify menstrual health and make sure everyone understands it is a normal physiological process that girls and women go through,” she added.
The items presented various topical themes including human-wildlife conflict, relationships and other societal challenges.
Mzughula Elias, the County Drama Chairperson for primary schools, said drama officials remained upbeat over the presentations because many schools had produced exemplary pieces that were expected to do well in the regional contest.
He noted that unlike last year, this year’s drama pieces had been perfected as he expressed hope of the county shining during the Mombasa competition.
“Last year we only had two items that went to the nationals. Judging by the performance at the county, there is reason to hope we will increase that number,” he said.
Other schools that won during the festivals include Mahoo Primary from Taveta with a play, Vichwala Primary with a choral verse, Mbele primary with a play; Mwakitau Primary with a cultural dance; Sowene Primary with a narrative and County Hill Academy with a solo verse.
Mzughula also thanked schools for facilitating their pupils to the county competition after the funding for inter-curricular activities delayed.
By Wagema Mwangi
