Nakuru County To Spend Sh17 Million To Boost Creative Industry

The Nakuru County government has taken a significant step towards promoting the creative industry by allocating Sh17 million in the 2023–24 Financial Year. This funding will be utilized to construct a state-of-the-art recording studio and revamp the Nakuru Players’ Theatre. The aim is to support and nurture the rich, diverse, and vibrant creative talents within the County.

Embracing Digital Platforms for Growth

In light of this development, Governor Susan Kihika encourages creative industry players to explore new revenue streams on digital platforms. By doing so, they can build resilience and improve their incomes. Governor Kihika’s administration is fully committed to investing in theater and the arts as a means of generating employment opportunities for the youth. She urges thespians, musicians, content creators, and concert organizers to harness the power of digital platforms by taking their creations online.

Leveraging Opportunities in the Digital Space

During a courtesy call by members of the Nakuru Technical Working Group in the Creative Sector (NTWGCS), Governor Kihika acknowledged the existing gap in the vast digital space. She emphasized the importance of content creators in Nakuru utilizing this untapped potential to showcase their skills and talents. Governor Kihika affirms her commitment to supporting the creative industry within the County to leverage the opportunities available for job creation.

Recognizing the UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Nakuru City, alongside Port Louis in Mauritius, stands as one of the two cities in East Africa recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network. Governor Kihika urges creative artists in Nakuru to capitalize on this prestigious recognition. By doing so, they can enhance their craft, create new content, prepare promotional material, and invest in online revenue streams. The Governor highlights the fact that the introduction of prime arts and comedy segments on various television stations signifies the viability of art as a lucrative venture. Notably, Kenyans are now actively involved in producing films, videos, television and radio shows, video games, music, and books.

Encouraging Progressive Thinking and Innovative Ideas

Governor Kihika believes that cultivating the imagination and creativity of young people is paramount in fostering progressive thinking and innovative ideas. She emphasizes the significance of fully utilizing homegrown talent in all events organized by the County. Art, as an expressive and non-threatening medium, allows individuals to convey their inner feelings. The Governor pledges to protect local artists from exploitation and provide opportunities for young people to explore various creative avenues, including music, drama, dance, film, art, and fashion.

Safeguarding Kenyan Creativity

The Youth Affairs, Sports, and Arts Cabinet Secretary, Ababu Namwamba, has announced the preparation of a new legal framework to protect Kenyan creativity and the industry. The proposed New Creative Economy Bill aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework to effectively manage the industry. The bill encompasses not only the film industry but also music, theater, fashion and design, fine art, and performing arts. It is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the creative economy by providing a solid foundation for its development.

Embracing Technological Advances and Cultural Interconnectedness

Cultural experts argue that restricting culture to tradition and ethnography limits the opportunities presented by imagination, technological advancements, rapid urbanization, and cultural interconnectedness. To ensure the profitability and inclusivity of the digital economy, it is crucial to foster the growth of homegrown digital platforms in the country. This will create a sustainable environment that benefits all stakeholders involved in the creative industry.

FAQs

1. How will the Sh17 million funding be utilized?

The Sh17 million funding will be used to construct a recording studio and revamp the Nakuru Players’ Theatre, aiming to support the growth and development of the creative industry within Nakuru County.

2. What are the benefits of tapping into digital platforms?

Tapping into digital platforms allows creative industry players to explore new revenue streams, build resilience, and improve their incomes by reaching a broader audience online.

3. What opportunities does Nakuru’s recognition by UNESCO present?

Nakuru’s recognition by UNESCO as a Creative City provides an opportunity for creative artists to enhance their craft, create new content, and leverage online revenue streams. It serves as a platform for promoting their talents and reaching a wider audience.

4. How does the Governor plan to protect local artists from exploitation?

Governor Kihika is committed to safeguarding local artists from exploitation by implementing measures to ensure fair compensation and providing platforms for artists to showcase their work. This includes protecting their intellectual property rights and advocating for a supportive environment for creative endeavors.

5. What is the significance of the New Creative Economy Bill?

The New Creative Economy Bill aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework to manage the creative industry effectively. It will consolidate various creative sectors, including film, music, theater, fashion and design, fine art, and performing arts, providing a robust foundation for their growth and development.

6. How can the digital economy become inclusive and sustainable?

To achieve inclusivity and sustainability in the digital economy, it is essential to nurture homegrown digital platforms, encourage technological advancements, and embrace cultural interconnectedness. This will create an environment that fosters profitability and benefits all participants in the creative industry.

Conclusion

The allocation of Sh17 million by the Nakuru County government to boost the creative industry marks a significant step towards nurturing and supporting the County’s rich pool of talent. Governor Susan Kihika’s commitment to investing in theater and the arts reflects the administration’s dedication to creating employment opportunities for the youth. By embracing digital platforms, tapping into the UNESCO recognition, and implementing a comprehensive legal framework, Nakuru County aims to unleash the full potential of its creative industry. This strategic approach will foster innovation, empower local artists, and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the County.