The government has announced a package of support aimed at turning content creation into a sustainable livelihood — combining funding, partnerships with global platforms and a network of digital hubs meant to bring internet, devices and training closer to youths across the country.
State Department for ICT Principal Secretary Eng. John Tanui told a group of more than 40 digital creators in Nairobi that the move is intended to help creators scale their businesses and access the finance they need. He said the government will coordinate with other ministries and development partners to open funding windows and secure grants that can grow the sector.
“We are also going to engage our colleagues in other Ministries to ensure that the young people can access the funding that they might need. We are also working with partners to see how we can access additional funding and also grants that can help to grow the sector,” Eng. Tanui said.
A key piece of the plan is a partnership with major digital platforms. Eng. Tanui highlighted collaboration with META (Facebook) as a way to help creators monetize their work and attract additional investment to the sector. “We have been able to unlock some funding to continue to build the sector and even make it possible for other players to also come and make their additional contribution. Government is committed to supporting the content creators,” he said.
Infrastructure is the other headline: the government is rolling out digital hubs and larger “centres of excellence” across the country — with plans to work with MPs so every ward eventually has access to a hub. Eng. Tanui said the KONZA project, developed with partners including the government of South Korea, will host one of the country’s largest digital media facilities, intended as a national anchor for media production and innovation.
Creators at the meeting welcomed the announcement. Diana Yegon, a content creator, described the recognition and monetization as transformational. “For the first time, we are being appreciated — our efforts are being seen,” she said, adding that content creation is now a full-time job that is beginning to pay. Ms. Yegon thanked government leaders for opening doors to platforms like META, which she said have created real earning opportunities.
Officials say the hubs will provide internet access, devices, computers and training to young people — particularly in rural areas — enabling them to create, publish and earn without relocating to major cities.
