The creative industry has become a lucrative field in many African countries, including Kenya. With the rise in income and jobs created by this sector, it is imperative that the government increase its spending and expenditure to support its growth.
As an artist and a witness to the growth of the creative industry in Kenya, I have seen firsthand the opportunities that this industry can provide. From art classes to collaborative commission projects with upcoming artists, the creative industry has given birth to diverse art, identities, and diversities. That come from being black, African, and Kenyan.
However, despite the growth of the industry, there seems to be a disconnect when it comes to generating sustainable income that contributes to the country’s GDP. It is unclear whether the persons responsible for implementing sustainable policies and projects to improve the industry are lagging behind or whether there is a dire need for professional experts in the art field and economics as far as the creative industry is concerned.
To understand the growth of the creative industry, it is essential to take a step back and look at the African renaissance period. This was a time when Africans were free to create works that paid tribute to their pride as black people with blood from their ancestors coursing through their veins. The African renaissance gave rise to movements such as Tinga Tinga Tales, which featured the integration of humans and their environments.
The sudden growth of the creative industry in Africa gave rise to collectives in East Africa, such as Gallery Watatu, among others. These collectives have provided a platform for artists to showcase their works and connect with potential buyers and clients.
This industry has the potential to create jobs and generate income, especially for the youth, who form the majority of the African population. According to a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the creative industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world and has been growing faster than the global economy in recent years.
In Kenya, the creative industry has been growing at an impressive rate in recent years, with the government acknowledging its potential and investing in it.
However, there is still a long way to go to fully exploit its potential. For instance, the sector has not received adequate funding, and most artists work without proper infrastructure, tools, or equipment. This lack of support has limited the creativity and growth of the industry. To fully harness the potential of the creative industry, there is a need for increased funding, better infrastructure, and policies that support the growth of the sector.
For one, the government can collaborate with private investors to fund the sector, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. Additionally, the government can provide incentives to investors interested in investing in the industry.The government can also work with universities, colleges, and other institutions to provide training and skills development programs for artists. This will help them to create high-quality art that is marketable locally and internationally.
The creative industry has the potential to be a significant contributor to the GDP of African countries, including Kenya. Therefore, it is imperative that the government invests in this sector by implementing sustainable policies and projects that will support its growth. Additionally, there is a need for professional experts in the art field and economics to help guide the industry towards achieving its full potential. We have a long way to go, yes. Without fully understanding the potential of the kenyan art industry, it will be almost impossible to create policies that harbor growth.
