Bungoma Artists Rally Behind Creative Industry Bill 2023 for Enhanced Opportunities

BUNGOMA – Artists and content creators from Bungoma County have voiced their support for the Creative Economy Policy and the Creative Industry Bill 2023, citing the potential benefits for their talents in terms of market access and credit facilities. Kasembeli Watila, the Chairman of the Bungoma County Musicians Association, expressed optimism that the Bill, currently awaiting parliamentary approval, would significantly expand artists’ networks both locally and internationally.

According to Kenya News Agency, The endorsement came during a stakeholder engagement forum at a Bungoma hotel, according to Kasembeli Watila. The event, organized by the State Department of Creative Economy in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, brought together artists, musicians, and content creators from the county. The participants emphasized the importance of providing local artists with opportunities to perform at national events, highlighting the potential for such exposure to effectively market their talents.

A major concern raised at the forum was the issue of copyright infringement, which has adversely affected musicians’ earnings due to unauthorized reproduction of their content. Musician David Barasa urged local residents to support Bungoma artists, noting that performances are a vital source of income for them.

The Creative Industry Bill 2023 aims to promote and develop individuals in the creative industry. Marcos Masinde from the Kenya Film Classification Board, who presided over the event, acknowledged the valuable contributions of the youths’ opinions in shaping the Draft Bill. The goal of the Bill is to improve the livelihoods of young people in the creative sector.