The First Annual Inter-Braeburn Swahili Festival
12th February 2026
On Thursday, 12th February, pupils from Year 7 and 8 joined students from Year 9 and 10 at Braeburn Garden Estate for the first Annual Inter-Braeburn Swahili Festival. Four schools took part — Braeburn Garden Estate, Braeside Lavington, Braeside Thika and ourselves, Braeburn School — in a vibrant celebration of Swahili language and culture.
Pupils enjoyed a range of engaging activities, including traditional dance, henna art, storytelling, speeches and a lively quiz. The quiz mixed students into ten teams to answer questions on Swahili culture, food, festivals and even The Lion King, which features several Swahili words. They later sampled delicious Swahili snacks such as mahamri, viazi karai and kachiri, followed by an impressive programme of performances.
Highlights included Yi Xi from our Year 7 confidently reciting the shairi Moyo Wangu Waburudika, earning her a book prize, and a captivating retelling of the legend of Fumo Liyongo by storyteller Ms Wangari. A hearty Swahili lunch was followed by interactive language games led by radio broadcaster Matthias Momani. The festival concluded with awards celebrating outstanding achievements, marking a truly memorable and inspiring day.
