Nairobi, Kenya – The Nairobi Cinema came alive on Friday, August 23, 2024, as it hosted the highly anticipated Content Creators Gala, a meet-and-greet event that brought together established and emerging content creators from across the multimedia spectrum. Organized by the Content Creators Gala, an initiative founded by the visionary Resian Lebai, the event was a remarkable gathering aimed at fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and elevating the content creation industry in Kenya.
The event was graced by a diverse panel of experts, including comedian, content creator, and activist Eric Omondi; Timothy Owase, CEO of the Kenya Film Commission; Linda Musita from GIZ/KECOBO; Esther Mukima of Viusasa; Eddie Nalwa, Digital Strategy Manager at Kapu Digital; and Loise from KECOBO, among others. The famous “Birdman,” a content creator known for his work rescuing and living with eagles, was also in attendance, adding a unique flair to the occasion.
Insights and Learning: A Focus on Regulation and Responsibility
The panel discussions provided invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving content creation landscape, emphasizing the importance of regulation, formalization, and responsible content creation. Loise from KECOBO highlighted the necessity of classifying and rating audio-visual content to ensure it aligns with audience expectations and regulatory standards. She stated, “Any audio-visual content has to be considered classified and rated. We have been working with broadcasters and now we are moving to other platforms.”
Loise further explained the proactive steps being taken by KECOBO to work with digital platforms to curate content that complies with local regulations. “We are working with platforms so that they can curate their platform to match our regulations. This would mean the system would classify content according to its category and audience.”
Training and self-regulation were also key topics of discussion. “We train content creators to ensure that they can understand how to classify their content. We also create awareness on the same,” Loise noted. She emphasized that the goal of these regulations is not to limit creativity but to create a safe and enabling environment for growth within the legal framework. “Our main target is to protect children. We are not trying to limit the industry but ensure an environment that enables it to grow within the law.”
The importance of self-regulation was underscored as a crucial aspect of content creation. “We encourage self-regulation so that creators can classify their content in order to reach their target audience. We are also trying to build synergy between KECOBO and content creators,” Loise added.
Formalization of Digital Content Creation
Timothy Owase, CEO of the Kenya Film Commission, stressed the need for the formalization of digital content creation as businesses. “Engaging content creators is very important because it enables us as regulators to work with them and for creators to know what is required of them,” Owase said.
He emphasized that formalization is key to ensuring that content creators can derive value from their work. “Content creation can improve the economic and social well-being of a creator. They should therefore formalize their businesses in digital spaces. By doing so, you will know your obligations because storytelling is fundamental in national cohesion,” he remarked.
Eric Omondi on Digital Activism and the Power of Content Creation
Renowned comedian and content creator Eric Omondi shared his journey into digital activism and the transformative power of content creation. He highlighted the ease with which content can now be created using mobile phones, but also the responsibility that comes with it. “Content creation and digital activism is a powerful tool that can build or harm the country,” Omondi stated.
Reflecting on his experience, Omondi noted, “I started digital activism in 2015, but people couldn’t understand back then. I have been arrested 15 times because of the same. Creators should understand that what they are doing can go either way. But content creation really pays well.”
Omondi also encouraged parents to support their children in pursuing careers in the arts, debunking myths around content creation. “I would encourage parents to let their children be musicians, comedians, and pursue other arts careers. It’s a talent and it’s key in today’s world. However, studying is important as it gives you leverage on your reach,” he advised.
A Bright Future for Kenya’s Content Creation Industry
The Content Creators Gala at Nairobi Cinema was a resounding success, providing a platform for creators to network, learn, and grow together. The event underscored the importance of collaboration between creators and regulators, the need for formalization in the digital space, and the significant impact that content can have on society.
As the content creation industry in Kenya continues to evolve, events like this gala are crucial in shaping a future where creativity thrives within a supportive and well-regulated environment. The insights shared by the panelists will undoubtedly inspire content creators to approach their craft with a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility.
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