Mathare takes centre stage as DBSA carnival celebrates young talent

From 5 to 8 August 2026, children from DBSA-supported schools across Mathare took part in activities showcasing their sporting abilities, creativity and cultural talents, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd from the surrounding community.

The carnival featured football, modelling, singing, dancing, choir performances, poetry and rap, giving students a public platform to showcase talents that might otherwise remain hidden beyond the classroom.

The sporting highlight was the “2026 DBSA Football World Cup Final”, in which Hanka Academy defeated Valleyview Academy in a spirited contest.

Ahead of the event, Afristar Blue Vest volunteers joined DBSA volunteers from Kenya and China to help students prepare for their performances and distribute books to local schools, underscoring a shared commitment to education and youth empowerment.

“This event is of great importance to the children of Mathare,” said Loice Abanga, DBSA coordinator. “It not only brings out their skills and talents, but also demonstrates how valuable and capable our children are.”

Abanga said the carnival also reflected the friendship and collaboration between Kenya and China, demonstrating how people from both countries can work together to create a positive social impact and invest in the future of younger generations.

Winrose Wachira, representing China Communications Construction Company, China Road and Bridge Corporation and Africa Star Railway Operation Company, presented awards across the various sporting and performance categories, recognising participants for their creativity and dedication.

Beyond major infrastructure projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway, also known as the Madaraka Express, the carnival highlighted how cross-cultural partnerships can extend into community development.

“The partnership between China and Africa has become a powerful force for economic and social transformation, with Kenya being a strong example of its impact,” said Nelson Asienwa, an Afristar staff member and Blue Vest volunteer.

“At the heart of this partnership are people, and Afristar staff in blue vests play a significant role in bringing this cooperation to life every day through volunteer initiatives,” he added.

Asienwa said community initiatives had benefited young people in areas such as Mathare through education support, school feeding programmes, learning materials and opportunities to discover and develop their talents.

He added that cultural exchange between China and Africa had brought people from different backgrounds closer, creating opportunities to share traditions, experiences and perspectives.

For four days, Mathare did more than host a carnival. It gave children a stage, celebrated their potential and offered a glimpse of the future they can help shape.