CS Murkomen vows to reform artists' royalties distribution at 96th Kenya music festival state gala
The Cabinet Secretary Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, EGH has vowed to overhaul the distribution of artists' royalties so that Kenyan artists receive a larger share of the funds.
Speaking at the 96th Kenya Music Festival Winners' State Concert at Eldoret State Lodge, hosted by H.E. President William Ruto, the CS announced plans to work closely with the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage to review distribution of royalties collected by the Collective Management Orgainsations (CMOs), to better benefits the artists and their talents.
"We cannot accept a situation where most of the artists' royalties are consumed by administrative costs. Our artists deserve better. We will take decisive action to ensure these funds benefit those who drive our nation’s cultural and creative industries," warned CS Murkomen, urging MCSK, PRISK, KeMP, and other organizations to enhance transparency and fairness in fund management.
The CS underscored the potential of Kenya's creative sector, stating, "Kenya harbors immense talent that, if effectively harnessed and commercialized, can transform our country's socio-economic landscape. We must ensure our artists are given the support they need to thrive."
He reiterated his Ministry's dedication to nurturing and monetizing artistic talent through initiatives such as the #TalantaHela and the WHOZNEXT talent search program, which aims to unlock the full potential of our youth by identifying, nurturing, and developing raw talent from the grassroots, ultimately making the creative sector a cornerstone of Kenya's economy.
The State Concert, attended by the First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Second Lady Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, and other national and county leaders, showcased Kenya’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring performances from dancers, singers, poets, and choristers, to mark the culmination of competitions that involved 145,800 participants from learning institutions across the country.
CS Murkomen pledged to reignite the vibrancy of Kenya's creative sector, noting that his Ministry's vision is to see the arts become a central part of the national identity and a significant driver of economic growth.