Over 1,300 students from across the country converged for the 6th National Amani Clubs Debate Championship, a major annual event that continues to position debate as a tool for promoting peace and national cohesion among young people.
The competition brought together 1,396 students drawn from 205 schools in 26 counties. A total of 289 teachers accompanied the participants, who competed in 219 teams across 12 categories in what organizers described as one of the most expansive editions of the championship.
Throughout the event, students engaged in structured debates and public speaking sessions centered on peaceful coexistence, conflict resolution, and national unity. The discussions, often intense and highly analytical, reflected a growing awareness among learners on the importance of dialogue in addressing societal challenges.
The championship was supported by key institutions including the Ministry of Education – Kenya, the Teachers Service Commission, National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, and the National Counter Terrorism Centre, as well as the Machakos County Government. Stakeholders noted that such collaborations are key to strengthening values-based education and empowering learners to become agents of peace.
In the results announced at the close of the competition, Friends School Tigoi from Vihiga County won the French Public Speaking category, while Chavakali High School, also from Vihiga, emerged top in the Kiswahili High School category.
Mang’u High School from Kiambu County secured victory in the Public Speaking (High School) category. The Adelaide School won the English Junior School Debate, as Narok Teachers Training College took top honors in the Tertiary English category.
In the Special Category, Thika School for the Blind delivered a standout performance to claim the title. St. Germain Gatanga Girls from Murang’a County won the Kiswahili Public Speaking category, while Greenview School Kabimoi from Baringo topped the Kiswahili Primary category.
Joysil preparatory School from Matungu, Kakamega County emerged Top in public speaking Junior category.
Maseno School from Kisumu County emerged as winners in the English Secondary Debate category, one of the most competitive segments of the championship. Disciples of Mercy won the English Primary category, while Nakuru Senior School claimed the German category title.
St. Elizabeth Girls Senior School from West Pokot completed the winners’ list after emerging top in the Kenya Sign Language category.
Organizers said the championship continues to grow in scope and impact, offering a national platform for students to express ideas, sharpen communication skills, and build mutual understanding across diverse backgrounds.
Education stakeholders emphasized the need to sustain and expand such initiatives, noting that they play a critical role in nurturing informed, articulate, and socially responsible citizens.
The Amani Clubs Debate Championship has, over the years, evolved into a key fixture in the school calendar, with its focus on dialogue and inclusivity aligning closely with broader national goals of unity and peaceful coexistence.
