Over the years, digital strategist Dennis Itumbi lamented the government’s failure to recognise creatives.
While appreciating the opportunity to serve in the Talanta Hela Council, Itumbi argued that it was time for artists to reap from their craft.
In a statement on Saturday, February 11, Itumbi argued that some creatives struggle to make ends meet despite their craft serving millions countrywide.
“In addition, foreign films by-pass Kenya because of simple decisions that policymakers take ages to make, as a result even our better stories are filmed in South Africa,” Itumbi complained.
He emphasised that Kenya has phenomenal artists and creators who have unexplored ideas, but the biggest problem has been decision-making at the policy level for the longest time.
Itumbi affirmed he was tasked with ensuring artists in the country benefit from their craft.
“Asante CS Ababu Namwamba for picking me to assist deliver this very important assignment – with a Ruthless Focus, I pledge to serve and ensure the creators and performers benefit from their talents,” he stated.
He added that he would work on the national strategy for the Creative Economy, backed by various Technical Committees.
Some include theatre, film, music, art, craft, animations, gaming, poetry, photography, graphics, and graffiti, among other sectors.
“This is the opportunity to dream big and connect ideas to reality. I love this totally. The come here, go there secretariat is happy to support and serve. So help me God,” he concluded.
Itumbi was appointed alongside David Langat, Debra Mallowah, Abraham Kipyegon Mutai, Charles Gacheru, Claudia Naisabwa Leshomoo, Nobert Ouma, and June Chepkemei, among others.
The team will serve for three years while approving the necessary policy legislative, budgetary, regulatory, and institutional frameworks for successfully implementing the Talanta Hela Initiative.
Source: kENYANS.CO.KE
