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The eagerly anticipated reggae concert slated for today, March 2nd, 2024, at Makongeni Social Hall, has been thwarted by law enforcement following mounting apprehensions over its potential negative impact on the local youth.
Organized by the Member of Parliament representing Makadara constituency, the concert, titled the “Estlando Reggae Festival,” faced staunch opposition from both residents and local authorities.
The MP’s bid to secure police clearance for the event was rebuffed by the Makongeni Officer Commanding Station (OSC) in light of community grievances. Concerns primarily centered around past instances where similar gatherings reportedly drew in school-age attendees, exposing them to substances like drugs and alcohol, as well as other social vices such as shisha smoking.
Residents, vocal in their opposition, voiced distress over the adverse effects such events could have on the impressionable minds of their children. One resident expressed relief at the intervention of law enforcement, citing the potential harm posed to the community’s youth. “These concerts are detrimental to our children, exposing them to harmful substances and behaviors. The swift action taken by the police is commendable,” remarked the concerned resident.
Criticism wasn’t confined to law enforcement alone; parents in the area also questioned the MP’s judgment in organizing such a spectacle, particularly during a time when school-aged children were on a half-term break. Many voiced concerns over the suitability of such events in an environment where educational opportunities should take precedence.
“How can an elected official endorse a reggae party within our community when our children should be focusing on their studies? This is a blatant disregard for the welfare of our youth,” lamented Jack Odongo, a Makongeni resident.
Makongeni’s local representative, MCA Peter Imwatok, echoed these sentiments, labeling the organization of such events as regrettable and wholly inappropriate, particularly given the recent dismal academic performance of local schools.
Highlighting broader societal concerns, the Nairobi County Majority Leader underscored the detrimental impact of such gatherings on the community, citing a correlation between such events and increased rates of early pregnancies, school dropouts, and overall insecurity in the area.
Meanwhile, in the Coastal Region, Interior CS Kindiki Kithure’s crackdown on similar events has garnered praise. Residents of Makongeni are now calling for similar action to be taken in their constituency, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to safeguard the welfare of the youth.
