NAIROBI, Kenya, May 10 – Kenya’s growing push to turn the creative sector into a larger economic contributor is drawing renewed attention as policymakers, artists and technology entrepreneurs prepare to meet in Nairobi for the WITIA Creative Show 2026.
The event, organized by Women in Technology and Innovation Africa, comes at a time when governments and investors across Africa are increasingly looking at digital content, cultural production and creative entrepreneurship as new sources of jobs and export earnings, particularly for young people.
Set for May 8, the forum will bring together officials, innovators and cultural practitioners to discuss how technology is reshaping Kenya’s creative industries, from digital storytelling and online content creation to artificial intelligence and cultural preservation.
“Kenya’s creative economy holds immense potential for employment creation, innovation and national transformation. Platforms such as the WITIA Creative Show demonstrate how technology, culture and creativity can work together to create sustainable opportunities for young people and creative entrepreneurs,” said Principal Secretary for the State Department for Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs.
“Creative enterprises are an important part of Kenya’s MSME ecosystem. Supporting artists, innovators and cultural entrepreneurs through policy, market access and partnerships is critical to strengthening livelihoods and expanding economic inclusion,”said Principal Secretary for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Susan Auma Mang’eni.
Kenya’s creative economy has gained prominence in recent years as streaming platforms, digital marketing, gaming, online media and social commerce expand opportunities for creators beyond traditional entertainment channels.
Policymakers have also been under pressure to address long-standing concerns around copyright enforcement, monetization and access to financing for creative enterprises.
The WITIA event is expected to examine how emerging technologies including AI-powered tools and digital distribution platforms are altering how African stories are produced, distributed and monetized.
Eunice Pohlmann, founder of WITIA, said the organization sees the convergence of technology and creativity as central to Africa’s future economy.
“The WITIA Creative Show is more than an event; it is a movement that seeks to bridge art, technology and innovation. We believe the future belongs to creators who are able to combine culture, storytelling and digital tools to shape new possibilities for Africa,” she said.
Industry participants say the rise of mobile internet access, social media distribution and digital payment systems has lowered entry barriers for independent creators, although monetization challenges remain significant for many young artists and content producers.
Bella Namango said technology was changing how cultural heritage and artistic expression are preserved and shared.
“The intersection between technology and art is redefining how we preserve heritage, communicate ideas and create impact. By bringing together creatives and innovators, we are opening doors for collaboration, research, education and sustainable growth within the creative economy,” she said.
The event will also focus on partnerships between academic institutions, investors, innovators and creative entrepreneurs, as organizations seek to build more structured support systems for emerging talent.
