Creative industry leaders urge stronger rights protection, financing and export support as a music sector estimate exposes a major earnings gap.
Kenya could lose about Sh7.1 billion annually in uncollected music revenue, Recording Industry of Kenya chairman Eric Musyoka said. He cited the Music Economy Development Initiative Report 2026 during a creative economy discussion in Nairobi.
The session took place at the Africa Commerce and Industry Summit 2026 at Uhuru Gardens on Wednesday. Participants called for investment, stronger intellectual property protection and better access to international markets.
Uncollected music revenue exposes earnings gap
Musyoka also estimated that radio broadcasts of sound recordings represented a market worth more than Sh600 million. He linked that potential income to more than 400 Kenyan radio stations using recorded music.
That market offers potential earnings for record companies and independent artists. However, the broader annual estimate highlights the gap between music production and income reaching rights holders.
Meanwhile, Wowzi co-founder and president Mike Otieno outlined how creative businesses can use technology and data to grow. He said investors need evidence of demand, sound business practices and a credible growth plan.
Financing and distribution limit creative businesses
For filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu, inadequate financing and distribution remain bigger obstacles than a shortage of talent. She said filmmakers often seek money outside Africa, potentially giving external financiers significant influence over their stories.
Without reliable distribution channels, however, even strong productions can struggle to earn sustainable income. Kahiu cited South Korea’s sustained cultural investment as an example of support that helps music and television reach global audiences.
She also questioned whether Kenya’s tax and investment frameworks adequately recognise film and music as export industries. In addition, she urged private investors to back creative businesses and consider competition from South Africa and Morocco.
Drew Giblin of the US Embassy in Nairobi said predictable regulations and viable commercial opportunities help attract investment. For example, quality stadiums could host concerts and major events, supporting a wider entertainment economy.
US-based Kenyan artist Lovince McKenzie also called for conditions that help artists earn, alongside strategic international collaborations. He cited Rema’s collaboration with Selena Gomez on Calm Down as an example of reaching wider audiences.
Industry seeks sustained trade engagement
A keynote prepared by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei urged government to treat creative industries as economic assets. Director of Foreign Service Polycarp Otedo delivered the address.
Participants also proposed a creative economy committee within the Chamber of Commerce to connect government, industry and investors. Session moderator Angela Ndambuki welcomed the sector’s inclusion in the Chamber’s trade and investment agenda.
Ndambuki, IFPI’s regional director for sub-Saharan Africa, said the next step should formalise engagement on exports, investment and business conditions.
