Exploring the Dynamic Role of Art in Shaping Society

27Mar, 2024

Exploring the Dynamic Role of Art in Shaping Society

Date: March 26th, 2024

Participants: 33

Overview:
In our coffee session held on March 26th, 2024, we delved into a thought-provoking discussion on the dynamic role of art in shaping society. The conversation was marked by lively debate and insightful perspectives, touching upon various aspects of art’s influence on our collective consciousness.

Key Points Discussed:

Defining Art in the Modern Age:

Participants acknowledged the evolving definition of art, particularly in light of technological advancements and changing social dynamics.
The emergence of content creators on digital platforms like TikTok was highlighted as a redefinition of traditional notions of artistry.

Navigating Controversy and Interpretation:

The debate over whether art should be clear or provocative sparked engaging dialogue, with participants offering diverse viewpoints on artistic freedom and social responsibility.

The subjective nature of artistic interpretation was emphasized, with recognition of the potential for controversy to spark meaningful dialogue.

The Legal and Ethical Landscape:

Participants explored the legal and ethical considerations surrounding artistic expression, acknowledging the delicate balance between creative freedom and social consequences.
Instances of artists facing legal repercussions over their work, particularly concerning sensitive topics, were discussed.

The Societal Impact of Art:

The discussion extended to the broader societal impact of art, including its role in shaping culture, generating income, and creating employment opportunities.
Participants reflected on the varying levels of influence wielded by artists in global social and political discourse, drawing comparisons with politicians’ influence in Kenya.

Empowering Artists for Change:

Despite challenges, participants expressed optimism about the potential for artists to effect meaningful change in society.
Emphasis was placed on the importance of artists taking a firm stance on pressing social issues to earn respect and contribute to meaningful conversations.

Conclusion:
The coffee session on March 26th, 2024, provided a platform for rich discourse on the role of art in shaping society. Participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions, exploring the evolving definition of art, navigating controversy and interpretation, and recognizing the societal impact of artistic expression. Moving forward, we are inspired to continue exploring the transformative power of art and its potential to drive positive change in our communities.

21Mar, 2024

In A Relationship: Who Should Make The Decision?

*Participants during Coffee Bar Tuesday.* Photo: Evans Jomo

“Who has the bag makes every decision.” This was one of the sentiments during Coffee Bar Tuesdays. This week, we were dissecting on who makes the decision in a relationship. With the question being posed to the participants, the majority of the participants raised various points which determine who makes the decision in a relationship. Some of the points raised include: whoever has more money makes the decision in a relationship, a man should make the decision, a woman should make the decision, both the man and women should make the decision while others added whoever comes with the plan or the suggestion should be able to make the decision.

This conversation came at the right time where we have high cases of sexual and gender based violence which is as a result of power imbalance and gender inequality. By not understanding your relationship power dynamics, it’s very easy for you to be a victim of SGBV or have wrangles in your relationship. During the discussion, we were able to note that power is as a result of many things such as money, human resource, family background and also physical appearance.

With the discussion being able to understand power dynamics in a relationship, it stood out that most young people believe that money runs the relationship. A participant quoted Thomas Sankara’s quote which stated that “the person who feeds you controls you”. A participant added that in majority of our houses, women make decisions out of the fact that the man of the house is not always there or doesn’t have money. We also took note of the fact that every couple has different needs, preferences and ways of working together with participants sharing that making decisions together gives you ownership of the relationship and decision made.

“As a man of the house, I am the one responsible to make decisions whether it favors me or not.” A participant added

How decisions are made in relationships are also influenced by where you grew up in, your family set up and also how you are socially constructed. In families where the father used to make decisions, chances are as a young man, you will always feel the entitlement of making all the decisions without involving the woman. If you came from a single mother family, chances are as a lady you will feel entitled in making the decision. How we are socially constructed also plays a critical role in who makes the decision. In an example given, in most communities, men are seen as the head of the family which gives him the power to make the decisions while in some women are allowed to make decisions concerning kitchen matters.

One participant emphasized the importance of leveraging each partner’s strengths and weaknesses in decision-making within a relationship. For instance, if one partner possesses relevant information regarding a purchase, they should be empowered to proceed with acquiring the product or service, while still considering the input of their significant other. In a good partnership, decisions are ideally distributed according to each partner’s expertise but regular check-ins are essential to ensure that decisions align with their shared vision and values.

As the discussion drew to a close, it was highlighted that when decisions within a relationship are made without the other partner’s contribution, it directly serves as a red flag. This underscores the importance of mutual consideration and consensus-building in decision-making processes to maintain the well-being and harmony of the relationship. When you stop consulting with each other on issues pertaining to your relationship, kindly note you are putting your relationship at stake. As a couple, it’s important to agree on how to make a decision about your relationship before committing. This will help in controlling power dynamics and also address gender inequality which at the end makes your relationship grow and make it stronger. Also, we all agreed that with the current state of economy, both of you should make sure that you are financially stable. See you on Tuesday!

15Feb, 2024

What Are The Roles Of Chief?

*Participants during Coffee Bar Session.* Photo: Evans Jomo

The majority of young people in our country rarely engage with the office of the chief. Is this because they don’t fully grasp the office’s roles or is it because it’s perceived as solely dealing with domestic matters? In this week’s Coffee Bar Tuesday, we delved into understanding the chief’s office within our community and its authority. While chiefs are renowned for settling disputes, their roles extend beyond that, as outlined in the Chief’s Act.

During our discussion, participants were asked to share their perceptions of the chief’s roles. Some mentioned responsibilities like enforcing bans on illicit brews, handling domestic violence, representing government ministries, maintaining order, ensuring children attend school, source of information, confirming community membership, and authorizing birth and burial documents. Some of these duties might deter young people from engaging with the office.

We dissected the Chief’s Ac which was first enacted in 1937, to better understand the office’s functions. It remains unclear whether the office is constitutional post the 2010 constitution. From the Act, we identified key responsibilities: maintaining order, employing assistants within the community, be a source of government information and issuing lawful orders.

“I used to think the only role of the chief is to solve domestic violence issues and as well prohibit illicit brews. I also thought the office is only for the wazees only since almost all of them are kinda old.” Participant said

We also addressed the issue of Nyumba Kumi, clarifying that chiefs have the authority to appoint individuals to assist in their duties. Disobeying a chief’s lawful order can result in a fine or penal employment, while assaulting a chief carries severe consequences. We also shared that the chief is not responsible in mediating or creating a solution on any capital offences. One of the example was the chief should not even mediate any sexual violence or child marriage. That should be handled by the prosecutor and the court.

Under the leadership of the current Cabinet Secretary of Interior, Kindiki Kiture, it has been announced that every chief will be allocated five administration police officers. This move signals a significant shift, as chiefs and their assistants are poised to regain the influential status they once held, which evoked both admiration and criticism.

The presence of armed police officers at their disposal is set to amplify chiefs’ authority and influence within their communities. Historically, chiefs’ power and sway were greatly augmented by the attachment of Administration Police (AP) officers to their offices. This reinstatement of armed police support is likely to enhance chiefs’ ability to maintain order, enforce laws, and address community concerns effectively.

We continue to create spaces for young people to learn, unlearn and relearn something new. Young people should be able to walk to any government office without the fear of being judged and thrown out. We encouraged young people to interact with the office and the people appointed by the chief. See you on Tuesday.

To read more about the chiefs roles and responsibilities, read here

8Feb, 2024

Calling For Music Producer

Join Our Team at MUYI HUB

Are you a passionate music producer with a flair for creativity? Do you possess top-notch skills in music production software and a keen eye for detail? Look no further! MUYI HUB is seeking talented individuals like you to join our dynamic team.

At MUYI HUB, we provide a state-of-the-art music studio equipped with all the necessary recording equipment to bring your musical visions to life. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we welcome you to unleash your creativity in a supportive and collaborative environment.

What We’re Looking For:

Creative Minds: Bring your unique style and ideas to the table.
Technical Expertise: Proficiency in music production software is a must.
Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and teamwork abilities. Growth Mindset:
Eager to learn, improve, and evolve in your craft.
Portfolio Showcase: Share your samples of work done to showcase your talent.

What We Offer:

Commission-Based Payment: Earn based on the projects you work on.
Access to Top-notch Equipment: Utilize our cutting-edge recording studio.
Collaborative Environment: Join a supportive community of fellow creatives.
Opportunities for Growth: Expand your skills and network within the industry.

Join MUYI HUB and become part of our vibrant community of music enthusiasts and professionals. Together, let’s create unforgettable sounds and elevate the music scene!

Apply now and let your passion for music production thrive at MUYI HUB!

For inquiries and applications, contact us at info@mukuruyi.org or 0718606149

MUYI HUB – Where Music Dreams Take Flight

2Feb, 2024

First Public Space Within Mukuru

*Area Member of County Assembly KDI Kenya team and Our Executive director launching the public space.* Photo: Julius Rasat

On February 1, 2024, in collaboration with Kounkuey Design Initiative Kenya (KDI Kenya), we proudly introduced the inaugural public space within Mukuru Kwa Reuben, named the Mukuru Riverfront Public Space. This holds significant importance for us as an organization dedicated to create a community that interacts and protects with nature. How did this journey start? The journey began in November 2022 when, alongside KDI Kenya, we initiated the search for a suitable location for a public space along the Ngong River which is a tributary of Nairobi River within Mukuru.

Despite months of scouting and challenges such as ownership constraints and budget limitations, we identified a drainage area adjacent to Bridge International Academy. This spot played a crucial role in the flooding of the area, impacting the school’s functionality and tenant’s access. The Mukuru Riverfront Public Space not only addressed the flooding issue but also complemented an ongoing project at the Bridge school which aimed at addressing flooding within the school and surrounding area.

In a unique approach, together KDI Kenya engaged in a co-creation process with the community, involving both teams to envision the public space collaboratively. This vision was then translated into a design by the lead designer, and the project ran concurrently with the Sustainable Design Academy, where students played a vital role in its completion.

*The public space before it was transformed.* Photo: Julius Rasat

The Sustainable Design Academy equipped participants with environmentally restorative design principles, using Minecraft as a tool for envisioning and creating spaces. The co-creation process involved input from various community members, including landlords, tenants, leaders and children. Construction of the public space commenced, with priority given to those who attended the workshops, providing employment for over 300 rotational workers.

The launch of the Mukuru Riverfront Public Space was attended by local organizations, leaders, the Bridge International Academy leadership, religious figures, and community members. Member of the County Assembly, Scholastica Muthoni, emphasized the importance of partnerships for community development. Since its initiation, the project has generated employment and features a children’s play area, meeting shade, trees, a bridge, seating areas and drainage to mitigate flooding.

*Our Executive Director addressing the community.* Photo: Julius Rasat

Our executive director urged residents to protect the public space, emphasizing the need to prevent vandalism and expressed gratitude to KDI for choosing Mukuru Youth Initiative as their implementing partner. Community associate Kazia Ojal acknowledged the project’s challenges but praised stakeholders for their support. The MCA interacted with residents, highlighting the significance of partnerships for community development.

As Mukuru Youth Initiative, we are privileged to have played a key role in addressing environmental, social, drainage, educational, and flooding concerns in Mukuru Kwa Reuben. We want to extend special thanks to KDI Kenya, UN-Habitat, Sustainable Design Academy, Bridge International School, local administration, the construction team, local organizations, the community and everyone involved in making the Mukuru Riverfront Public Space Project a success. The launch signifies not just the end but a new beginning for Mukuru Kwa Reuben.

1Feb, 2024

Do Young People Understand The Housing Levy?

*Participant during Coffee Bar Tuesday.* Photo: Evans Jomo

Do you have faith in the government? What exactly is the Housing Levy, and who does it target? In simpler terms, we aimed to gauge the awareness of young people regarding current events in Kenya, specifically focusing on the housing levy during the Coffee Bar Tuesday. We also wanted to understand if the community is informed about the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold the suspension of the Housing Levy, preventing the government from collecting contributions from both employees and employers which we realized young people are not aware.

Although a significant number of participants were not employed, they still expressed their opinions. Many opposed funding the affordable housing fund at the moment, citing the economy is not stable and many are struggling to make the ends meet, which hinder their ability to contribute to the fund. One participant shed light on tax collection processes and explained why the government settled on the 1.5% housing levy and why everyone must contribute to the fund. He shared that the government is trying to fund the project from the taxes and from loans.

In Kenya, decent and affordable housing is crucial for providing dignity, security, and privacy to its citizens. The 2010 Constitution mandates the state to take various measures to achieve the progressive realization of the right to adequate and accessible housing. While Kenya has made progress, there is still work to be done. Can taxation play a role in achieving affordable housing? It’s also important to note that contributing to the affordable housing fund does not guarantee free housing, there’s some down payment of 300,000 which must paid first.

“National Health Insurance Fund has been having scandals all through, for you to get the national social security you must beg for you money that was being deducted all those years. If the government was not able to take care of your health money, how do you think that they will take care of the affordable housing fund?” a participant asked

During the discussion, participants were asked if they trust the government and the responses were both shocking and disheartening. Almost half of the room expressed a lack of trust in the government, citing a need for the government to regain the trust of its people. Questions arose about trusting a government with a questionable track record, citing issues with organizations like the National Health Insurance Fund, National Social Security Fund among others.

Through the Finance Bill of 2023, the government mandated a 1.5% monthly contribution from both employees and employers for the Affordable Housing fund. Employers failing to comply face a penalty of two percent of the unpaid amount each month.

From the discussions, you could tell that there’s a lot that the government has to do in sensitizing the government about their projects. Majority of young people don’t have information making it hard for them to question some of the proposals. We emphasized the need of attending public participation and it’s only through such forums that you are able to be enlightened and ask relevant questions. We believe in the power of having information, it’s only through right information that you are able to make right decisions.

24Jan, 2024

Femicides, Who Do We Blame?

How did we get to killing each other? Who should we hold accountable for the ongoing rise of femicide cases and who is not playing their role well? These were some of the guiding questions for our Coffee Bar Tuesday discussion. This was also a pick up from last week’s discussion where we shared on what could be the reason why our women are being butchered day in day out and we are yet to get any statement from the government.

Read previous discussion here https://www.mukuruyi.org/2024/01/17/femicides-is-there-a-justification/

Examining the four femicide cases that unfolded in January alone, it became evident that a systemic failure was at play. An alarming case brought to light was that of Scarlet Wahu, where prior victims had reported the perpetrator, John Matara, to various police stations. Shockingly, these reports went unaddressed, leading to the tragic loss of Scarlet Wahu. This raised the critical question: if the authorities had acted on previous reports, could she still be alive today?

Participants were able to share where the blame should be directed to which includes Kenyan government, security agencies, society, families, men, women and even friends. The societal aspect has surfaced as a major catalyst for the escalating femicide cases. The existing social construct, frequently relegating women to subordinate roles and fostering power imbalances within families, was pinpointed as a breeding ground for the emergence of these heinous acts.

“We have been socially constructed to believe that women are powerless and men should always lead the way creating power imbalances between different families.” Participant shared

Families were also not left out as some participants argued that a lack of love and support within familial circles could drive individuals to seek validation elsewhere, often falling prey to exploitative and dangerous influences. This perspective sparked mixed reactions, with some attributing family dynamics as contributing factors to unthinkable actions. Looking at some of the victims do come from well-off families meaning money was never a contributing factor.

Social construction is also something that stood out during the discussion. We have been socially constructed that women should always come second in everything and their say is not as important as it should be. This results to backlash when a woman raises their voice on something. Additionally, societal expectations dictate that men should portray strength even in moments of vulnerability, potentially leading to harmful coping mechanisms that result to harming others.

As a key takeaway, participants emphasized the need to treat everyone as human beings first, advocating for equal treatment. The constitution’s right to life must be upheld and protected by the government. The government agencies must also play their role accordingly: if someone reports something they should be able to follow up ASAP. We also need clear policies that regulate some of these contributing factors and at the end men should stop killing women and there’s no justification for killing anyone. See you on Tuesday!

17Jan, 2024

Femicide, Why Are We Justifying?

The rise in femicides in Kenya over the last few weeks of 2024 has sparked concern and contemplation among participants in our recent Coffee Bar Tuesday conversation. The prevalent question was: what could be the underlying reasons for the alarming rate at which women are being killed, often by someone close to them? A different perceptive emerged with many suggesting a connection between these deaths and financial motivations.

During the discussion, participants cited recent incidents, attributing the killings to a perceived pursuit of a luxurious lifestyle by some women. The notion that these women, driven by desires for wealth and extravagance, become more susceptible to violence gained traction. The purpose of this discussion was not only to comprehend the reasons behind these acts but also to collectively brainstorm ways to safeguard women and condemn the killings.

When participants were asked to delve into their perspectives on the root causes, a variety of factors surfaced, including poverty, financial constraints, greediness, the allure of an easy life, involvement in prostitution, and engagement in partying. However, some argued that, given that certain victims came from well-off families, financial motives might not be the sole driver. Instead, they posited that there must be deeper reasons behind these tragic events.

With different reports indicating that 1 out 3 women have experienced violence during their lifetime could now change to 3 out of 3 women has experienced violence especially in Kenyan context. Women and girls have been going subjected to brutal killing and at the end blamed for the murders with society justifying why they were killed.

During the discussion, the moderator posed a question asking “how can we create a safe place for women and girls and what advice would you give to your daughter or sister? This brought allot of mixed reactions. One participants shared that as soon as a girl has been engaged in sex, there’s nothing you can advise them concerning sex.

“The moment your daughter or sister engages in sex, there’s nothing you can tell them, they to be they have seen the world and knows how the world works” Participants shared

The importance of a strong support system emerged as a key element in protecting women and girls. Participants highlighted that when parents or guardians become a reliable support system, they foster an environment where their children feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Many acknowledged a communication gap between parents and children, raising the concern of someone lacks affection where they are, they seek affection externally leading to misunderstandings.

At the end, the discussion emphasized a critical point: Airbnb or any external factor does not kill women; it is men who commit these acts. There is no justification for taking someone’s life, regardless of the lure of money. The plea was for parents to foster closeness with their children, educating them about the realities of the outside world and reinforcing that everyone is both a potential survivor and unfortunately, a potential perpetrator and they should always be vigilant on anything they do.

17Jan, 2024

Join Our Team as a Communications Intern!

Are you a dynamic and creative individual with a passion for communication studies, new media, PR, and social media management? We’re on the lookout for a talented Communications Intern to join our growing team and make a significant impact!

About MUYI:

Mukuru Youth Initiative (MUYI) is a dynamic organization dedicated to empowering youth and fostering positive change within the community. Through various projects and initiatives, MUYI aims to provide opportunities for growth, education, and skill development, creating a pathway for young individuals to unlock their full potential. We leverage on the power of art to create interventions in the community.

Key Responsibilities:

Communication Expertise: Leverage your background in communication studies to craft compelling and engaging messages that resonate with our audience across various platforms.

New Media Enthusiast: Stay at the forefront of digital trends and new media landscapes to bring fresh and innovative ideas to our communication strategies.

PR Maven: Assist in developing and maintaining positive relationships with community, media outlets, influencers, and stakeholders to enhance our brand visibility.

Social Media Activation and Management: Take charge of our social media presence by planning and executing strategic campaigns, fostering engagement, and monitoring analytics to optimize performance.

Video Production Skills: Showcase your creativity by shooting and editing captivating videos that tell our story and connect with our audience on a deeper level.

What We’re Looking For:

A passion for communication and a keen understanding of its evolving landscape.
Proficiency in social media platforms and a knack for creating shareable content.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills to manage various projects simultaneously.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a team.
Experience in video production and editing.

Why Join Us?

Learning Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience in various aspects of communication and digital media.
Innovative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and embraces new ideas.
Career Development: Grow your skills and take on new challenges as you contribute to our success.
Networking: Build valuable connections in the communication and media industry.

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of professional growth and contribute your unique skills to a vibrant team, we want to hear from you! Send your resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio showcasing your communication and media projects to info@mukuruyi.org by 31st January 2024.

Join us in shaping the future of communication and making a difference in the lives of the Mukuru youth!

17Jan, 2024

Call for Script Writer – Sauti Za Mtaa Film

The Mukuru Youth Initiative (MuYI) is excited to announce a unique opportunity for talented scriptwriters to contribute to our groundbreaking Sauti Za Mtaa project. Sauti Za Mtaa is a community-driven initiative aimed at fostering social change, community empowerment, and accountability among duty bearers in the vibrant Mukuru community.

About Sauti Za Mtaa:

Sauti Za Mtaa leverages the power of art to amplify the voices of the community, addressing critical issues and inspiring positive change. Through various activities, including community forums, festivals, and artistic expressions, the project aims to empower residents and promote accountability.

About Mukuru Youth Initiative:

MuYI is at the forefront of community-driven initiatives in Mukuru, dedicated to empowering the youth and fostering positive change. Our organization actively engages with the community, working collaboratively to address challenges, enhance skills, and create a platform for impactful projects.

Opportunity:

We are currently seeking a skilled and imaginative scriptwriter to join our team in crafting the screenplay for the Sauti Za Mtaa film. This individual will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with our dynamic team members and the vibrant Mukuru community in bringing this inspiring story to life.

Who We’re Looking For:

Young and creative scriptwriters, fresh from school, are encouraged to apply.

Experienced scriptwriters with a passion for community-driven narratives are welcome.

Availability:

The selected scriptwriter is expected to be available from February 1, 2024.

Application Deadline:

All applications must be submitted by January 28, 2024. Interested candidates should send their resumes, portfolio, and a brief cover letter highlighting their experience and motivation to info@mukuruyi.org, addressed to the Programs Manager.

Join us in making a difference through the art of storytelling. We look forward to welcoming a talented scriptwriter to our Sauti Za Mtaa family.

Mtaa Buzz