Kenya & US to co-host Creative Economy Conference 2025

By Daisy Okiring

Kenya and the United States will co-host a creative economy conference later this year, bringing together artists, innovators, and industry professionals from both countries to promote talent development, innovation, and economic empowerment in the creative sector.

The announcement was made by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs Salim Mvurya, following a meeting with US ambassador to Kenya, Marc Billard, on Wednesday.

Bilateral discussions

The initiative builds on bilateral discussions held during President William Ruto’s 2024 state visit to Atlanta, USA. The conference aims to foster cultural exchange, enhance collaboration in film, music, fashion, and digital arts, and develop policy frameworks that support youth-driven innovation and entrepreneurship.

“We are focused on economically empowering creatives and providing opportunities that inspire growth,” said Mvurya. “We look forward to impactful contributions from U.S. creatives during the conference.”

Billard reiterated the US’’s commitment to fostering talent and strengthening economic ties through the creative sector. “The youth are our future, and creating opportunities that connect talent, skills, and knowledge between Kenya and the US remains a key objective,” he stated.

Conference will explore financing options

The conference will include workshops, panel discussions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities aimed at equipping young creatives with the skills and resources needed to scale their ventures. It will also explore financing options, intellectual property rights, and digital transformation in the creative industry.

Mvurya emphasized that the Kenyan government is accelerating policy reforms and legal frameworks to create a thriving creative economy. “By investing in this sector, we are not only supporting young people but also contributing to job creation and economic diversification,” he added.

The conference underscores the growing recognition of the creative economy as a vital driver of employment, revenue, and cultural diplomacy between Kenya and the U.S.