Nakuru: The Government is committed to supporting the creative industry which plays a key role in not only fostering creative thinking but also addressing high unemployment rates. Nakuru County Commissioner Mr. Loyford Kibaara said the government has identified the creative economy as one of the fastest sectors not only as a source of employment but also an enabler of national cohesion and innovation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Economic Survey 2023 revealed that the arts, recreation, and entertainment industry creates jobs, accounts for 5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and 0.25 percent of total wage employment. It was also identified as a contributor to a happier and healthier lifestyle. Mr. Kibaara, speaking at the launch of the sixth edition of the Kenya Universities Performing Arts Association (KUPAA) National Drama and Performing Arts Festival at Egerton University’s Njoro Main Campus, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts from individuals, corporations, and stakeholders to
harness and maximize the creative talent.
The administrator, alongside Egerton University’s Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage, noted that with the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), future jobs will heavily rely on art and creative work due to technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence (AI). ‘Through art and creativity, we can create new industries and job opportunities. What we need are many artists and creative individuals to become entrepreneurs by starting their own businesses or ventures related to their craft. This enterprising spirit will lead to self-sustaining careers and economic independence,’ stated Mr. Kibaara.
The KUPAA event, which brings together students from both public and private universities across Kenya, serves as a platform for showcasing the passion and skill in the performing arts. Mr. Kibaara praised the festival for celebrating the vibrancy of creative expression in academia and fostering a culture of arts within Kenya’s higher education sy
stem. He highlighted the festival’s role in promoting conversations around critical social issues through art, thus underscoring the value of the arts in highlighting societal issues and fostering empathy.
Mr. Kibaara pledged the government’s commitment to helping players in the sector realize its vast opportunities, with projects underway to support industry growth. The government has focused on enhancing the development of the creative economy using digital platforms. Additionally, the County Commissioner encouraged artists to create content that aligns with African culture, promoting local content internationally.
Professor Kibwage lauded KUPAA for providing learners with opportunities to showcase their talents and inspire job opportunities and wealth creation. He thanked the government for legislative policies favoring the arts industry and emphasized the importance of creatives making a meaningful life from their art. The Vice Chancellor noted that businesses in the arts, entertainment, and recreation
sector had the highest average life compared to other industrial sectors.
KUPAA chairman Mr. Bonface Isalambo underscored the importance of investing in the creative industry as a driver of economic growth and global recognition. He stressed that culture is central to Nakuru’s identity and a valuable resource for fostering community cohesion. The festival aims to create a platform for industry players to learn, share, and celebrate their artistic creations while promoting national cohesion.
The event has become a forum for promoting artistic expression for national cohesion and sustainable development, offering a marketing venue for products and fostering teamwork and unity. Mr. Isalambo emphasized the importance of students utilizing homegrown talent, and the commitment to promoting and protecting local artists against exploitation.
Kenya’s creative sector evolution can be attributed to factors such as an expanded digital environment, improved internet infrastructure, and a growing global interest in Afri
ca’s creative sector. These factors have opened diverse revenue streams, particularly for the youth, who are exploring entrepreneurship opportunities to improve their livelihoods.