The 5th anniversary of the Avid Readers’ Forum shimmered on the horizon, a beacon of celebration within the law school community. As the sun dipped beneath the horizon on the late afternoon of 4 October 2024, the Midland Hotel in Nakuru became a vibrant hub of anticipation. Guests, lecturers, and students, all dressed in their finest formal attire, all whites and blues, arrived with beaming smiles and eager hearts, ready to embark on an evening of unforgettable experiences.
The hotel stood majestically, welcoming all into its embrace. Inside, the lively atmosphere was electric - animated conversations floated through the air, punctuated by laughter and warm greetings. In true African style, attendees exchanged heartfelt salutations, their joy lighting up the room within moments of arrival. The banquet hall dazzled with white silk-covered seats and round tables, each adorned with colourful flowers and festive balloons, setting a scene straight out of a dream.
As the guests settled in, Esther Blessing stepped forward to lead the opening prayer, her voice carrying a reverence that enveloped the gathering. The Master of Ceremonies, the charismatic Mr Ngure, took the stage next, introducing and welcoming everyone with flair. And then came the moment everyone had been waiting for - the buffet! A tempting spread awaited, with the enticing aromas of beef and chicken stew wafting through the air. Freshly steamed vegetables, soft, fluffy rice, and warm, pillowy flatbread beckoned guests to serve themselves. Laughter and chatter echoed as chilled sodas clinked against stacked plates, adding a refreshing zing to the sumptuous feast.
Yet the real magic of the evening unfolded during the series of inspiring speeches. Students such as Elvis Soita, Adeline Chelagat, and the school president of Sun and Shield took to the microphone to share their heartfelt testimonies. With each story told, one could feel the spirit of the Avid Readers’ Forum rising in waves, touching the hearts of junior students and igniting sparks of hope and ambition for their futures. The lecturers followed suit, delivering empowering messages filled with pride, motivation, and hope. Mzee Elisha Ongoya, the Forum’s convener, captivated the audience with his wit and humour, leading to raucous laughter while recounting the uplifting tale of the Forum’s beginnings. Honourable Justice Mohochi and Chief Guest Honorable Lady Justice Ong’udi added their praise, recognising the immense contributions and successes of the Forum and its members. The University's administration, led by the dean, echoed this sentiment, celebrating the Avid Readers’ Forum as a cornerstone in advancing the institution's academic vision.
As the night progressed, gratitude flowed like wine, culminating in the awarding of gifts to those who had significantly influenced the Forum’s journey. This moment seamlessly transitioned into the official launch of the Avid Readers’ Forum Activity Report, 2019–2024, Volume 1 - the first of its kind - honouring those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Then came the moment of sweetness: cutting a cake as rich and perfectly sweet as the created memories. Photographers eagerly captured candid smiles and joyous conversations, ensuring that the essence of the night would be forever etched in time.
As the formal dinner concluded, the atmosphere transformed. The DJ, a master of ceremonies in his own right, filled the space with pulsating beats that invited everyone to the dance floor. The vibrant sounds of dancehall, genge, amapiano, and afro beats took over, led by the infectious energy of Jabez Oyaro, joined by the spirited contributions of Mogesa and Sindiga. Bodies swayed and moved to the rhythm, the laughter and music mingling into an unforgettable symphony of joy. Also, some could not move their feet; their bodies could not sway. Their inability to dance should not be a cause for concern. I won't mention names today, but Professor Ambani, the Dean of Kabarak Law School, was their ringleader. They may have found solace in the remaining pieces of cake because, by the time we got tired of dancing, the cake was all gone.
As the clock crept toward midnight, the guests departed, their hearts brimming with happiness and a sense of belonging. Students and lecturers alike left with smiles on their faces, cherishing the memories of the evening, their thoughts drifting toward future gatherings filled with laughter and learning. Reflecting on the event, it became clear that this celebration was more than just a milestone for the Avid Readers’ Forum; it was a testament to the community and family blossoming since its inception in 2019. With so much achieved, hope flourished for what lay ahead, echoing the resonant farewell from Mzee Ongoya: "Mbele iko sawa!" - the future is bright!
Edited by C Kadima
