Kenyan MPs are accelerating efforts to formalize the creative economy through the Creative Economy Support Bill, which has entered final review in the National Assembly. The legislation, already approved by the Senate, aims to provide structure, funding, and protections for creators in fields like music, film, and digital content. Stakeholders gathered in Naivasha to discuss its implications for millions of young professionals.
The Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture, chaired by Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama, held a stakeholder session in Naivasha to deliberate on the Creative Economy Support Bill (Senate Bill No. 30 of 2024). Co-sponsored by Migori Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch and nominated MP Irene Mayaka, the bill targets the regulation of Kenya's fast-growing digital and cultural sectors, including music, film, digital content creation, fashion, gaming, photography, cultural performance, and sports innovation.
If enacted, the bill would establish a Creative Industry Council as the apex body to advise the government, coordinate programs, and protect creators' rights. The council would link professionals to markets, incentives, and investment opportunities, operating under an Advisory Board with representatives from government institutions and the creative sector. It would be supported by a full-time secretariat within the relevant ministry.
Key provisions include a voluntary Roll of Creatives, a national register granting registered practitioners access to government incentives, protection frameworks, and development programs. The bill also proposes an online platform to centralize information on grants, training, and resources. Additional incentives encompass subsidies, tax breaks, a credit guarantee scheme, expanded intellectual property protections, and special accommodations for creatives.
As a Money Bill under Article 114 of the Constitution, it requires National Assembly oversight on funding and management. Stakeholders at the Naivasha meeting included officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, the Attorney-General's Office, and civil society organizations.
Wanyama emphasized the urgency, stating, “We need this law. It will be vital for our country and for the millions of young people whose livelihoods depend on creativity. We appreciate all the stakeholders who turned up and shared their views with utmost clarity.” The bill's passage could mark a turning point for Kenya's creator economy, offering reliable financing and formal recognition.