Deputy President William Ruto today, April 24, 2021, met members of the creative industry led by rapper Brian Robert Ouko alias Khaligraph Jones.
The DP had answered to a request by Kahligraph to discuss their concerns, receive suggestions and proposals on the current situation in the country.
Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in the country in 2020 creative and entertainment industries, have been gravely affected, which has seen a lot of entertainers go out of jobs, putting a strain on their families.
During the meeting- which was held at the DP's Karen residence, the artists offered to help in the fight againt the pandemic, making suggestions on how to help the Government, and the industry generate revenue.
They requested the creation of a special government fund to support the artists, government and persons of goodwill to reengineer the industry in digital space to facilitate online music concerts and to assist the industry adapt to the new normal.
Led by Khaligraph, they assured to spearhead an intense campaign to promote directives by the Ministry of Health on safety protocols and vaccination.
Further, they urged the Government to provide a clear roadmap, timelines and measurable milestones whose attainment will lead to the re-opening of the country. This, they said, will help them plan resumption of their activities.
"In our meeting, we also discussed the possibility of coming up with a policy that will help weed out bureaucracy, brokers and impediments that slow the growth of the industry.
"We acknowledge that artists have worked hand in hand with the government and appreciate their proposal to assist in confronting the pandemic. We welcome their offer to reinforce the campaign on the observance of Covid-19 protocols and vaccination drive once it is rolled out fully," DP Ruto stated.
"I offered to ensure that their recommendations and proposals are forwarded to the National Emergency Response Committee on Coronavirus," he assured.
Some of the artists present included Felix Jalang'o, veteran rapper Nonini, DJ Joe Mfalme, Willi Paul, Arrow Boy, among others.
