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Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sherrif Nassir has taken a significant step towards enhancing the creative economy by forming a taskforce aimed at transforming the sector into a key driver of economic growth and job creation for the county’s residents.
The taskforce announced on 23rd December 2024, supports the governor’s Mwanzo Mpya Manifesto, which is commited to nurturing innovation, talent, and intellectual property across various creative disciplines, including audiovisual arts, performing arts, and design.
Mandate of the taskforce
The nine-member task force, chaired by KTN Swahili News anchor Ali Manzu with Caroline Ngorobi as the Vice Chairperson, has been given a six-month period to deliver actionable recommendations.
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Also in the task force is filmmaker Daudi Anguka who comes in as a member. Here is the membership of the task force:
1. Chairperson - Ali Manzu
2. Vice Chairperson - Caroline Ngorobi
3. Member - Awadh Salim
4. Member Hellen Mwanzia
5. Member - Kessi Juma
6. Member-Michel Jerry
7. Member-Daudi Anguka
8. Member - Margaret Matunda
9. Secretary Esther Ingolo
Their mandate includes evaluating challenges in the creative economy and formulating a comprehensive plan to position Mombasa as a cultural and tourism hub.
The task force is expected to explore monetisation opportunities within the creative sector and enable more creators to earn a living from their talents through strategic partnerships.
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Daudi Anguka, CEO of AR Films and an award-winning Kenyan filmmaker ( Photo courtesy, Daudi Anguka Instagram)
Other responsibilities include reviewing the sustainability of existing programmes, engaging with the National Government and stakeholders, and advising on legislative, policy, and administrative interventions to bolster the industry.
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Collaboration with stakeholders
To achieve its objectives, the taskforce will work closely with the County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Sports, Gender, and Cultural Services.
It will also seek input from various stakeholders, including the National Government, NGOs, religious institutions, and the private sector.
Governor Nassir emphasised the importance of this collaborative approach, saying, “This initiative will ensure the creative economy becomes a significant contributor to economic growth while providing livelihood opportunities for our youth and residents.”
As part of its deliverables, the taskforce will provide an actionable implementation plan, addressing the legislative and policy needs required to drive the sector forward.